Overview
The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi features a dedicated gallery housing the skeleton of Lucy, a hominin estimated to be 3.2 million years old. The presentation of the skeleton is designed to create a specific viewing experience for visitors.
Research Context
Lucy represents a significant specimen in the study of hominin evolution, particularly concerning upright locomotion. Her discovery provided insights into early hominin characteristics. The display of her skeleton at the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi offers public access to this paleobiological artifact.
Approach
The exhibition of Lucy's skeleton at the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi is within a specially designed gallery. This gallery is characterized by particular environmental conditions, such as lighting, and influences visitor behavior, including speech volume. The skeleton itself is described as being 'carefully lit' and 'disarmingly small'.
Findings
The presence of Lucy's 3.2 million-year-old hominin skeleton generates a distinct atmosphere among visitors to the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi. Observations indicate that visitors tend to 'slow down,' 'lower their voices,' and frequently 'fall silent' when in the presence of the exhibit. This suggests a contemplative or reverential response to the display of the ancient hominin remains.