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The Venus of Willendorf
The Venus of Willendorf is a limestone statuette likely carved between 24,000 and 22,000 years ago, in the Upper Paleolithic, making it one of the oldest pieces of art in the world. The faceless, voluptuous, female figure is considered typical of this type of prehistoric art, though surviving examples are rare. The 11.1 cm figurine would easily fit in the palm of the hand, allowing for easy transport by the nomadic peoples of Ice Age Europe and a possible indication that it may have been used in some sort of fertility ritual. It was found in Willendorf, Austria, in 1908 and can be viewed at the Naturhistorisches Museum in Vienna.
Questions & Answers
What is the Paleolithic art period?
- The Upper Paleolithic (Late Stone Age, c. 50,000 to c. 12,000 years ago) is the period in human prehistory when we see the emergence of art. Upper Paleolithic art is usually divided into two categories: rock/cave art and portable art such as animal and anthropomorphic figurines.
Did any paintings survive from the Paleolithic period?
- Yes, there are surviving cave paintings from the Paleolithic period. The most famous ones include Altamira Cave in Spain, and Lascaux Cave and Chauvet Cave in France.
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