Extended Data Fig. 3: Reconstruction of key taphonomic events of Mtoto’s burial.

a–c, The 3D sequence illustrates the reconstruction of the key taphonomic events that affected the shape and relationship of the head and the spine. a, Original right lateral decubitus position of the child in the burial pit. b, Lateral compression of the thorax because of the sediment weight; the ribs are flattened but the rib cage does not collapse, as is common in decomposition in filled space (earth grave). c, The head dislocates, as is typical in the case of burials with perishable head support. d, Ideal reconstruction of Mtoto’s original position at the moment of its discovery at the site.