Over 17,000-Year-Old Cave Paintings

Exploring the ancient Lascaux cave paintings found in southwestern France, dating back 17,000 years, reveals a complex mix of astonishment and mystery. The paintings featured detailed depictions of animals, some now extinct, portraying vibrant colors made from mineral pigments. Scholars ponder over the absence of certain animals like reindeer and the presence of hand stencils, believed to be symbolic expressions. These ancient artworks, accompanied by abstract shapes and negative hand stencils, reflect a glimpse into the lives and artistry of Paleolithic humans across different regions.