Israel showcased a 9,000-year-old sandstone neck mask

The ancient sandstone mask with highly symmetrical and complete details is found near a settlement in Israel.

An ancient stone mask dating back to 9,000 years ago was revealed to the public at the Israel National Museum in Jerusalem, AFP reported. Antiquities were found on a field near the Pnei Hever settlement in the West Bank. Experts believe it is closely related to the beginning of ancient agricultural society.

9,000-year-old sandstone mask in Israel.(Photo: AFP).

Four drill holes show the mask used to wear.(Photo: AFP).

The mask is about the same size as a human face, made entirely of sandstone with facial details that have symmetry and a high level of perfection."You can even see the contours of your cheeks," archaeologist Ronit Lupu said. This is an extremely rare discovery that only 15 similar devices are found worldwide.

With four small bore holes found on the edges, the team believes that the ancient people used masks to wear or attach to the statues displayed, as part of a religious rite. Antiquities are thought to occur during a period of profound social transformation from a lifestyle based on hunting, gathering to long-term settlement and systematic agricultural development.

"The mask is related to the agricultural revolution. The transition from an economy based on hunting, gathering to farming and breeding leads to a change in social structure and an increase in activities. The rituals at this time often use sandstone figures and masks , " explained Omry Barzilai, head of Israel's Archaeological Research Department.