Dante's nose - how did they reconstruct it?

Question

I really don't understand how 'scientists' can reconstruct what a human nose looked like. Isn't the nose composed mostly of cartilage and flesh? I have never seen a skull ( I've been to the killing fields in Kampuchia) that ever had anything except a hole where the nose was. How do they really know if Dante's nose had a hook on it?

Answer 1

It's hard telling. Another way people get attention drawn to themselves I guess. I think there are other problems in the world that people should focus on rather that some old dudes nose...lol
Good Question though!!

Answer 2

Actually that is a great question..!!!

The basics for human facial reconstruction can be mapped out using human averages, but something as specific as a "hook" or "break" could only be determined by two things in my mind;

1- some other indication in the skull (or fractured piece of bone near the nose for instance)

2- some piece of written history describing him with a hook or bend to his nose.

Answer 3

You must go to Ravenna Dante's Tomb.
And misure it.