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Creeping Hyena Spear Thrower of La Madeleine
This 'creeping hyena' forms the highly decorated butt-end of an Upper Paleolithic spear thrower (also known as atlatl). The hook used to propel the spear is clearly visible. It was found at La Madeleine rock shelter in Tursac, Dordogne, France, and belongs to the Magdalenien culture (c. 17,000 to c. 12,000 years ago). It is 10.7 cm long and is on display in the National Prehistory Museum in Les Eyzies-de-Tayac, France.
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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