A rare find has emerged from the Giroft region in the southeast of the country. An international team of researchers believes that the ancient inhabitants of this area were painting their lips as far back as the second millennium B.C. Scientists suggest that this lipstick could be the oldest ever discovered, likely applied with a brush.
What the researchers revealed
This Bronze Age lipstick, a deep red color, was contained in a chlorite vial. It was first uncovered in 2001 when a severe flood washed away an ancient cemetery, revealing numerous intriguing artifacts. Now, scientists have conducted a thorough analysis of the find using cutting-edge research methods. Radiocarbon dating, in particular, indicated that the lipstick was made between 1936 and 1687 B.C.
The researchers noted that this prehistoric decorative cosmetic is not all that surprising, “considering the ancient, well-known technical and aesthetic tradition in the cosmetics of ancient Iran.”
Previously, archaeologists had discovered ancient foundations, eyeshadows, and black eyeliners in the Middle East and Egypt. However, the dark red pigments similar to those found in the Giroft lipstick had remained largely unexplored.
The team conducted a chemical analysis of the residue in the vial, which now resembles a fine purple powder. Scientists found that it primarily contains hematite, or red iron ore, known for its intense color. Additionally, they identified manganite, braunite, galena, and anglesite in the lipstick. The ancient cosmetic maker likely added plant waxes to the mixture, probably for fragrance.
Researchers also identified particles of quartz from ground sand or crystals, which they believe could have given the lipstick a shimmering effect. Currently, the quartz is flaking off from the deteriorating container, as reported by IFLScience.
Whether this mixture is shiny or not, it “bears a striking resemblance to modern lipsticks” in its formulation, the scientists noted. As for the vial, it is elegantly decorated with fine engravings and does not resemble any other known ancient cosmetic bottle. The researchers proposed “the idea that cosmetic products in ancient times were marked, packaged, and sold in standard containers of unique shapes, allowing for easy identification.”
This was a luxury item that played a significant role “in shaping social interactions within the hierarchies of early cities,” noted Professor Massimo Vidali from the University of Padua, the lead author of the study.
The results of the research were published in the journal Scientific Reports.