Just for clarity we could hypothesize pan as just as evolved as we are. While we have direct DNA measurement of similarities between relatively modern species, we have only mathematical models for the degree of similarity to our most recent common ancestor. Admittedly, Carole Jahme’s sketch of Lucy and a bonobo, with the exception of the pelvis, makes them look like litter mates. But we have little direct evidence beyond bone structure. (The sketch is inside the front cover of the advanced reading copy of Beauty and the Beasts. And no I’m not on any privileged reading list. The book had labels from two used book stores when I obtained it.)
Regards,
Steven