Why Ancient Toys Are Elusive Artifacts

Children have always played. But evidence of their pretend worlds and games is hidden in the archeological record.

By Bridget Alex
Jun 2, 2020 9:51 PM
Child Playing with Rhino Toy Figurine in Sand at a Beach - Shutterstock
(Credit: limipix/Shutterstock)

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Imagine strolling through a forest. Sunlight beams through deciduous branches. Birds chirp and trill. Squirrels scurry. Damp soil pads your footsteps. You know, idyllic forest stuff.

You come across a rock overhang and decide to rest. But in that secluded nook sits a crudely carved wooden figurine, with a lion’s head and human torso, surrounded by a ring of smooth, gray pebbles.

Dun dun dun.

What have you stumbled upon? The leftovers of some occult ceremony ... or just a place where children play?

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