15 Remarkable Discoveries of 2024: A Monster Diamond, Ancient Lipstick, and Erotic Roman Frescoes
In 2024, archaeologists and art historians unveiled numerous astonishing discoveries, ranging from groundbreaking research to unexpected finds. These included a construction worker uncovering a 1,600-year-old marble statue, an art historian identifying a lost masterpiece on social media, and an amateur archaeologist excavating an enigmatic Roman artifact.
Here are some of the year’s most significant art historical and archaeological discoveries:
- The Mystery of Roman Dodecahedrons
Amateur archaeologists in England discovered a large Roman dodecahedron, one of only 130 known in the world. Although its purpose remains unclear, experts suggest it might have been used in religious rituals. - Chopin’s Lost Waltz
A curator at New York’s Morgan Library uncovered an unsigned waltz by Frédéric Chopin, his first newly discovered work in a century, offering classical music enthusiasts a rare glimpse into his creativity. - Witch Marks Found in Tudor Manor
In Lincolnshire, England, a Tudor-era manor revealed an array of apotropaic marks, thought to ward off evil spirits, particularly in servants’ quarters. These carvings date back to the early 17th century. - Lost Picasso Painting
A painting long assumed to be insignificant was verified as an original Picasso, depicting Dora Maar. The artwork had been stored for decades in an Italian home and restaurant. - Dalí Prints Unearthed
Ten signed lithographs by Salvador Dalí were rediscovered in a garage during an antiques evaluation. These surrealist treasures exceeded expectations at auction. - Hermes Marble Statue
Archaeologists in Bulgaria found a well-preserved 1,600-year-old marble statue of the Greek god Hermes, buried after a 4th-century earthquake to protect it. - 4,300-Year-Old Egyptian Tomb Art
In Dahshur, Egypt, vivid frescoes in a tomb dating back to 2,300 BC depicted elegant scenes of daily life, highlighting the artistry of the Old Kingdom. - Roman Statue Found Beneath a Parking Lot
In Peterborough, England, a Roman statue was uncovered during construction. The artifact, believed to have been brought from Italy in the 18th century, poses questions about its burial.
A painting kept in a family home and restaurant for years has been identified by experts as a long-lost Picasso. Andrea LoRosso
- World’s Oldest Lipstick
A 4,000-year-old vial discovered in Iran contained a red mixture of minerals and plant waxes, making it the oldest scientifically documented lipstick. - South America’s Earliest Cave Art
Archaeologists discovered 8,200-year-old cave paintings in Argentina and Chile, the oldest known in South America, shedding light on ancient communication. - Roman Seaside Villa
A lavish 2,000-year-old villa emerged in Naples, Italy, believed to have belonged to Pliny the Elder. The partially submerged structure may still contain hidden treasures. - Colossal Diamond Found in Botswana
A 2,492-carat diamond, the second largest ever discovered, was unearthed in Botswana’s Karowe mine, surpassing previous records. - Henry VIII Portrait Found on Social Media
A missing Tudor portrait of Henry VIII was identified through a photograph on social media, revealing part of a long-lost series of significant historical figures. - Erotic Pompeii Frescoes
Pompeii archaeologists unearthed intricate frescoes featuring mythological and sensual scenes, demonstrating even modest Roman homes embraced elaborate decoration. - Plato’s Deathbed Details
Using AI, researchers deciphered ancient scrolls from Pompeii, uncovering new details about Plato’s final resting place and debunking myths about his last moments.
These discoveries enrich our understanding of history and culture, showcasing the power of combining traditional techniques with modern technology.
