Skull 68(12) from Medieval Orkneys

This project presents a craniofacial analysis and facial approximation of a young adult male from the Orkney Islands, dating to the medieval period (c. AD 1152–1384). Funded by the Orkney Archaeological Society, the project uses an interdisciplinary approach combining skeletal analysis, ancient DNA, isotopic evidence, and high-resolution 3D scanning to produce a scientifically informed visualisation of an individual from Orkney’s Viking-influenced population.

The facial approximation reflects a robust cranial structure consistent with Norwegian–Danish genetic ancestry and a coastal, marine-based diet. Distinct features such as pronounced brow ridges, a narrow nose, and an orthognathic facial profile are informed by skeletal morphology, with subtle adjustments reflecting evidence of physiological stress. The project demonstrates how evidence-based facial approximation can humanise archaeological remains while providing insight into ancestry, health, and daily life in medieval Orkney.