Animal Influences in Paleolithic, Egyptian and Greek Art

Animal Influences in Paleolithic, Egyptian and Greek Art

There are numerous ways in which animals have resonated within the

human mind. Throughout history there have been representations ranging

from the realistic, to myths, legends, symbols, and even horrific murderous

beasts; at the same time providing fascinating perspectives of our own

humanity. Various forms of art have conveyed ideas and concepts of

animal’s intelligence, as well as behavior, from generation to generation.

Animal art is used as a tool to make the connection between different

cultures at different time periods and it relates historical and symbolic

meanings. In most cultures animals have been linked with the supernatural

forces which were believed to control the natural world and the destiny of

humans. They were often revered as the agents. or associates, of gods,

and goddesses, and were even the focus of worship as deities. Following

the tracks of historical animal art, through the human imagination

introduces a trail of creativity and unsurpassed beauty.

Paleolithic art:

Cave paintings are the earliest known example of human art dating

40,000 to 8,000 BCE. The paintings mainly feature various animals

running, sleeping, and eating. Some also contain a few humans,

geometrical shapes, and even hand prints. The artist used permanent

features like ceilings, floors, and walls of rock shelters and caves as their

canvas. Pigments of black, yellow, red, and brown were utilized to display

the observations of animals. The painters gathered a great deal of

information about finding food, and which foods were safe to eat or to

hunt, by closely observing animals. The valuable information was passed to

others through the detailes in the...

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