Altamira cave painting of a bison
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Altamira cave painting of a bison
Cave painting of a bison in the Altamira cave, Spain. This cave contains several paintings of bisons, horses, deer and other animals that inhabited the area at the time, made using ochre, charcoal and haematite. The paintings were made in the upper palaeolithic (stone age) period, specifically in Solutrean (around 18, 500 years ago) and Magdelenean (16, 500-14, 000 years ago) times. The cave was unoccupied by humans between these times. As well as the paintings, numerous artifacts from the two cultures were found. The cave was sealed by a rockfall some 13, 000 years ago, and was rediscovered in the 1870s, after nearby quarry blasting disturbed the rocks
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6371391
© JAVIER TRUEBA/MSF/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Anthropological Anthropology Archaeological Archaeology Bison C Ulture Cave Painting Cognitive Archaeology Cultures Old Stone Age Paintings Palaeolithic Pre Historic Pre History Rock Painting Spain Spanish Stone Age Upper Altamira Cave Palaeontology Solutrean
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases an extraordinary piece of history - the Altamira cave painting of a bison. Located in the Altamira cave, Spain, this remarkable artwork dates back to the upper Palaeolithic period, specifically during the Solutrean and Magdelenean times around 18,500 to 14,000 years ago. The cave itself is adorned with various paintings depicting bisons, horses, deer, and other animals that once roamed the area. Created using ochre, charcoal, and haematite by our ancient ancestors, these masterpieces provide invaluable insights into their lives and culture. Interestingly, between these periods of human occupation and artistic expression in Altamira cave lies a significant gap when it was unoccupied. However, numerous artifacts from both cultures were discovered within its depths alongside these awe-inspiring paintings. Tragically sealed off by a rockfall approximately 13 millennia ago until its rediscovery in the late 19th century due to nearby quarry blasting activities disturbing the rocks. The accidental unveiling of this hidden treasure allowed us to marvel at humanity's artistic prowess from thousands of years ago. As we gaze upon this mesmerizing image captured by Science Photo Library without any commercial intent or mention thereof; we are transported back in time to witness an era long gone but forever preserved through archaeological wonders like this one. It serves as a testament to our shared past and fuels our curiosity about prehistoric civilizations while reminding us of their profound impact on shaping our present world.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
