Danish Mesolithic Period Mammal Tooth

Maglemosian Culture, c. 9000–5000 BC, Zealand, Denmark

A beautifully preserved molar from an elk or aurochs, discovered in the rich peat bogs of Denmark. This compelling piece dates back to the Maglemosian culture, one of Northern Europe’s earliest Mesolithic societies.

These early forest-dwelling peoples thrived in wetland environments, relying heavily on hunting, fishing, and foraging. Large mammals like aurochs and elk were essential for survival—providing meat, materials for tools, and even ritual objects.

This ancient tooth is a tangible connection to that world—a rare and authentic artifact from a vanished culture, ideal for collectors of prehistoric material and early human craftsmanship.

Good condition. Age-related wear, chip and fractures. Remnants of peat bog. Lovely deep dark brown patina. Fragment is treated with a surface-protecting beeswax layer. Size approx. 6,9cm x 2,5cm x 2,2cm.

Provenance: Danish private collection.

References and further reading:

Prehistoric period (until 1050 AD)/ The Mesolithic period, Nationalmuseet i København (https://en.natmus.dk/historical-knowledge/denmark/prehistoric-period-until-1050-ad/the-mesolithic-period/)

Early Maglemosian culture in the Preboreal landscape: Archaeology and vegetation from the earliest Mesolithic site in Denmark at Lundby Mose, Sjælland, Catherine A. Jessen, Kristoffer Buck Pedersen, Charlie Christensen, Jesper Olsen, Morten Fischer Mortensen & Keld Møller Hansen, Quaternary International. 378, 2015, pp. 73–87. (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.quaint.2014.03.056)

Med bue, pil og fiskespyd, Danmarks Oldtid, Jørgen Jensen, Gyldendals Open Encyclopedia (https://danmarksoldtid.lex.dk/Med_bue,_pil_og_fiskespyd)