WASHINGTON DC, United States — A statue representing Homo heidelbergensis on display at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. This reconstruction depicts an important human ancestor species that lived between 700,000 and 200,000 years ago. The exhibit is part of the David H. Koch Hall of Human Origins, which explores human evolution through various displays and artifacts.
Photograph by David Coleman. The Homo heidelbergensis statue at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington, , offers visitors a vivid representation of one of our ancient human ancestors. This meticulously crafted reconstruction is based on fossil evidence and scientific research, providing a glimpse into the appearance of a species that played a crucial role in human evolution. Homo heidelbergensis lived during the Middle Pleistocene epoch, approximately 700,000 to 200,000 years ago. This species is considered a likely ancestor to both Homo neanderthalensis and Homo sapiens, making it a key figure in the human evolutionary tree. The statue helps to illustrate the physical characteristics of H. heidelbergensis, which typically included a large brain case, prominent brow ridges, and a robust build. The reconstruction is part of the David H. Koch Hall of Human Origins, a 15,000-square-foot exhibition space that opened in 2010. This hall is dedicated to the study and presentation of human evolution, featuring a wide array of fossils, artifacts, and interactive displays that span millions of years of human history. By showcasing species like Homo heidelbergensis, the exhibit helps visitors understand the complex branching of the human family tree and the gradual changes that occurred over hundreds of thousands of years. The statue serves as a tangible link to our distant past, allowing museum-goers to come face-to-face with a representation of our ancient relatives. The National Museum of Natural History, which houses this exhibit, is one of the most visited natural history museums in the world. Opened in 1910, it is part of the Smithsonian Institution, the world's largest museum and research complex. The Homo heidelbergensis statue exemplifies the museum's commitment to public education and scientific accuracy in presenting the story of human origins and evolution.
Size: 8256px × 5504px
Location: National Mall, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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