【🐾】約1400年前の土器にネコの肉球跡？乾かす土器の横をウロついていたか
Archaeologists in Nara Prefecture discovered ancient pottery from the Kofun period (approximately 1,400 years ago) bearing what appears to be cat paw prints on its surface. The marks were likely made by a cat that wandered past the pottery while it was drying. The discovery has delighted history enthusiasts online, with comments celebrating this charming glimpse into ancient life with cats.
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What is pottery?
Pottery refers to vessels and containers made from baked clay, used in Japan from the Jomon period through historical times. Used for storing water and food, pottery is an invaluable archaeological resource, as its shape and decoration help identify specific time periods and regions.
What are paw prints?
Paw prints are impressions left by the fleshy pads on an animal's feet. Cats characteristically leave five distinct marks—four from their toes and one larger central pad. Such impressions are extremely rare in archaeology and provide valuable insight into ancient animal life and behavior.
What is the Kofun period?
A historical era in Japan spanning from the late 3rd century to the 7th century, named for the large burial mounds (kofun) constructed during this time. This period witnessed significant social development, the spread of rice agriculture, and active trade with China and the Korean Peninsula.
What is archaeological excavation?
Archaeological excavation is the systematic process of uncovering and studying buried cultural artifacts. Archaeologists analyze soil layers, document findings, conduct dating tests, and reconstruct past human life and culture. Such meticulous work enables us to notice unexpected discoveries like these ancient cat prints.