Archaeologists complete restoration of the Uffington White Horse's head and neck profile
- National Trust and Oxford Archaeology have successfully restored the head and neck profile of the Uffington White Horse, Britain's oldest chalk figure.
- The iconic prehistoric carving, dating back over 3,000 years, has been given a 'facelift' by archaeologists.
- The painstaking restoration work aims to preserve and showcase this ancient monument for future generations.
In a significant restoration effort, archaeologists have rejuvenated the Uffington White Horse, Britain's oldest chalk figure dating back over 3,000 years, located in Oxfordshire. The restoration focused on the head and neck profile of the 364ft (111m) long horse, which had narrowed over time due to grass encroachment and topsoil slippage. By carefully cutting back encroaching turf and redistributing chalk layers, the team successfully restored the figure to its original dimensions. Soil samples from the lowest layers of the figure were collected during the restoration to potentially refine the dating of the ancient horse. Utilizing 'optically stimulated luminescence' (OSL) dating, which analyzes crystalline materials like quartz or feldspar to determine sunlight exposure history, the team aims to provide more accurate dating results later this year. The Uffington White Horse is a significant archaeological site, being the oldest scientifically dated chalk figure in Britain, originating from the late Bronze Age. National Trust archaeologist Adrian Cox highlighted the historical and cultural importance of the Uffington White Horse, emphasizing its mysterious origins and enduring presence as an iconic landscape feature. The restoration work signifies a collaborative effort to preserve and understand this ancient monument, with English Heritage also expressing support for the ongoing research and restoration activities. The restoration not only aims to maintain the figure's physical integrity but also seeks to uncover new insights into its creation and purpose through advanced dating techniques. The Uffington White Horse stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of past civilizations, with its restoration serving as a tribute to the efforts of generations in safeguarding this historic landmark. As the archaeological team awaits the results of their research, the restored figure stands as a symbol of cultural heritage and a focal point for further exploration into the mysteries surrounding its creation and significance in the landscape.