In 2007, archaeologists working in the ancient city of Shahr-e Sukhteh (“Burnt City”) in southeastern Iran made an extraordinary discovery: the skeleton of a woman, estimated to have lived between 2900-2800 BC, with a perfectly preserved artificial eye in her left eye socket. This remarkable prosthetic is the oldest known artificial eye in human history, offering rare insights into ancient medical practices, craftsmanship, and cultural values.

The woman’s skeleton, measuring approximately 2 meters in height, was estimated to be between 28 and 35 years old at the time of her death. The artificial eye found in her socket was crafted from a light material, likely bitumen paste, a naturally occurring substance known for its malleability and durability. The eye’s surface was meticulously engraved with fine patterns simulating the natural iris, and thin threads were likely used to hold the eye securely in place, as evidenced by small holes on either side of the prosthetic.

Craftsmanship and Cultural Significance

The precision and care with which the artificial eye was made demonstrate a high level of craftsmanship. The finely etched details on the iris suggest that the creators had a sophisticated understanding of both aesthetic and functional design. This prosthetic was not merely cosmetic but likely served a symbolic or societal role, perhaps enhancing the appearance of the wearer or signifying status within the community.

Beyond the artistic skill, the artificial eye also reflects early medical knowledge. The fact that this prosthetic was securely fitted into the eye socket and shows signs of wear suggests that it was used for an extended period. The ability to create and fit an artificial eye so effectively speaks to the advanced level of medical and anatomical understanding possessed by the people of Shahr-e Sukhteh at the time.

Shahr-e Sukhteh: A Hub of Ancient Innovation

Shahr-e Sukhteh, located in Iran’s Sistan and Baluchestan province, was a vibrant Bronze Age city that flourished around 3200-2100 BC. It was a significant urban center on the Helmand River, known for its complex social structure, advanced technologies, and extensive trade networks. Archaeological finds from this region have provided invaluable information about early civilizations in Iran and their achievements in fields such as agriculture, medicine, and art.

The discovery of the artificial eye adds to the growing body of evidence that suggests Shahr-e Sukhteh was an advanced society with knowledge in various domains, including healthcare. Other significant finds from the Burnt City include early examples of brain surgery and sophisticated tools, further supporting the idea that its inhabitants were far ahead of their time in terms of technological and scientific developments.

Medical and Societal Implications

The artificial eye found in Shahr-e Sukhteh highlights the lengths to which ancient societies went to address physical disabilities or injuries. While modern medicine has made tremendous strides in prosthetics, this discovery suggests that early civilizations were already exploring ways to restore physical appearance and possibly function to those with injuries or medical conditions.

Additionally, the eye’s symbolic or cultural importance cannot be overlooked. In ancient societies, physical appearance often played a crucial role in social identity, and artificial enhancements such as this eye may have been a way to maintain social standing or even serve religious purposes. It could have been a status symbol or a reflection of the spiritual beliefs of the time, indicating that the person may have held an important role within the society.

The discovery also raises questions about early medical practices related to healing and body modification. It suggests that ancient civilizations may have had a more holistic approach to medicine, where physical health, spiritual well-being, and appearance were interconnected. This integrated view of medicine could explain why such great effort was put into the creation of this artificial eye.

Conclusion

The discovery of the artificial eye in Shahr-e Sukhteh offers a fascinating glimpse into the ingenuity of ancient civilizations. As the world’s oldest known prosthetic eye, it not only highlights the advanced medical knowledge and craftsmanship of its time but also opens up new possibilities for understanding the social and cultural practices of the era. This remarkable find stands as a testament to humanity’s long-standing drive to innovate, heal, and enhance both function and appearance, even in the distant past.