Scientists have found out how a person with a "wolf lip" lived in ancient China

Archaeologists investigated a grave in northern China dating from the late 18th to early 19th century. They found the remains of a young man of about 16-18 years old.

Details

Analysis showed that he was born with a pronounced cleft lip and palate. Such features usually cause severe feeding and speech difficulties, and in the past have often led to the isolation or even abandonment of a child.

In this case, however, this was not the case.

The study showed that the young man lived to adolescence and was not malnourished. This means that he was probably cared for and provided with the necessary nutrition from birth.

In addition, he was buried according to all accepted customs - in a family tomb, with items typical of common burials of the time. This indicates that he was a full part of his community.

Scholars also speculate that the woman he was buried with may have been his spouse - suggesting social integration rather than isolation.

Why it matters

The finding shows that attitudes towards people with birth defects in the past may have been more complex and ambiguous than is commonly thought.

This means that:

• people with characteristics were not always stigmatised
• families were able to provide long-term care and support
• integration into society was possible even without special resources

The researchers emphasise that this is a case study and does not necessarily reflect the situation in all regions and sectors of society at the time.

Background

A cleft lip and palate is a congenital trait that occurs before birth. In the past, it was often accompanied by social prejudice.

In some cultures, such children may have been rejected or considered "disadvantaged". However, historical sources from China show that the causes of this condition were often attributed to everyday beliefs rather than solely negative beliefs.

Source

The study is published in the International Journal of Osteoarchaeology (2026). The scientists analysed the remains and burial context to assess the living conditions and social status of the individual.