Prehistoric art was created by pre-literate cultures, with the oldest examples dating back tens of thousands of years to the Paleolithic era.

Famous examples of cave paintings are found at Lascaux in France and Altamira in Spain.

The primary subjects of cave art are large animals, such as bison, horses, and mammoths; human figures are rare and often depicted as simple stick figures.

The purpose of cave art is debated, with theories suggesting it was used for hunting magic, shamanistic rituals, or as a form of storytelling.

The pigments used were natural minerals like ochre and charcoal, often mixed with animal fat or saliva.

'Venus figurines' are small, prehistoric statues of female figures with exaggerated breasts, hips, and abdomens.

These figurines, found across Eurasia, are interpreted as symbols of fertility, a mother goddess, or survival and security.

Prehistoric art also includes engraved tools, bone carvings, and outdoor rock art.

The creation of this art demonstrates the early human capacity for symbolic and abstract thought.

This era of art provides the only direct insight into the minds of Paleolithic peoples.