Replica of Proconsul africanus Skull Description — Materials & Creation: 3D-printed from durable plastic (PETG/ABS) based on a detailed digital copy of the skull discovered by the Leakey team in 1948—the most complete Proconsul specimen to date. The model reproduces all the anatomical features of the original, including the characteristic tooth structure and facial bones. Hand-painted to accurately match the color of the fossil. Dimensions: Full-size, life-size replica: 14 cm (length) × 7.7 cm (width) × 7.3 cm (height) Alternative units: 5.5" L × 3" W × 3" H Jaw: The mandible is detachable for studying the dentition. Significance in Anthropology: Dating: 23–14 million years ago (Miocene epoch) Discovery site: Rusinga Island, Lake Victoria (Kenya) Importance:
A key link in primate evolution.
Combines features of monkeys (dentition) and apes (limb structure).
Brain volume of ~90-150 cm³ (comparable to modern guenon monkeys).
Features: Anatomical traits:
Absence of brow ridges (a primitive trait)
Protruding face
Ape-like canines and molars
Dietary adaptations:
Thin-enameled teeth (specialized for a frugivorous/fruit-based diet)
Lacks the "chewing" adaptations of later hominids
Evolutionary conclusions:
A potential common ancestor of apes and Old World monkeys.
Demonstrates the transition from an arboreal to a terrestrial lifestyle.
