New tech behind old face

University of Otago scientists who have re-created the face of a 2500-year-old Turkish peasant hope the technology will be used like identifying fingerprints - and possibly for court evidence.

Following last year's reconstruction of the face of a 2300-year-old Egyptian mummy from the Otago Museum, the team's latest project has silicone skin, rather than plaster, real hair, and eyes which have been aged with red veins.

Traditionally, facial depth averages were based on race, but that science was flawed, senior lecturer in anatomy and structural biology George Dias told the Otago Daily Times.

A mathematical model provided accurate soft-tissue facial depths, based on bone measurements.

Dr Dias said he hoped to refine the technology to a standard where it would stand scrutiny in court, and act like a fingerprint for identification.

"Within the next few years, we will reach that point," he said.

The peasant's body was uncovered during an archaeological dig in Kultepe in Turkey. She is believed to have been aged between 35 and 50 when she died. Her reconstructed face will go on permanent display in Istanbul.

- NZPA