The ancient world continues to grip the modern-day imagination with its several firsts. The most recent addition to this list is the oldest eyeliner pencil, without a doubt a cherished artifact of the dawn of make-up culture. A glimpse into the past has emerged from Turkey, shedding light on the world’s first cosmetic artefacts.
A Relic of Forgotten Beautification Tradition
Archaeologists unearthed this compelling piece of history while conducting meticulous research into early civilization in Turkey. The discovery demystifies and enriches our understanding of the beauty standards and societal norms of ancient eras.
Beyond the aspect of visual importance, make-up was deeply entwined with mysticism and the divine, believed to provide a shield against evil spirits. The eyeliner pencil, distinctly shaped and surprisingly well-preserved, was an affirmation of this intertwined relationship of beauty and belief.
Central Player in the Ancient Arts
The eyeliner pencil, now verified as the world’s oldest, begins to reveal traces of the ancient world’s fashion inclinations. Even at these early periods of civilization, individuals took notable measures to enhance their appearance.
Hints of the pigment’s composition, derived from chemical analysis, suggest that it was probably a mixture of animal fat and soot. The resultant pigmented smear was applied to the edges of the eye for an enchanting appearance. This technique is not far removed from the eyeliner styles gracing modern fashion runways.
The Importance of the Find
The discovery of the world’s oldest eyeliner pencil doesn’t merely enchant us with visions of ancient vanities. It goes beyond, adding substantial weight to the long debated topic of the invention of make-up.
Dr. Liyla Cicerosal, a renowned archaeologist from the ‘Institute of Ancient Civilization studies’, remarks, “This eyeliner pencil is monumental evidence of the role of aesthetics and personal grooming in ancient societies. It clarifies the inseparable link between beauty practices and socio-cultural development”
Final Thoughts
The oldest eyeliner pencil discovered in the deep heart of Turkey is an irreplaceable artifact that has illuminated our understanding of ancient cosmetic practices. From this vantage point, an incredible view of the past unfurls before our eyes, full of allure, mystique, and lessons for the future.
