Explore Virtual Caves

The image has been modified from the original, with apologies to the Paleolithic artist. It is from a wonderful website that provides a virtual exploration of the Cave of Chauvet-Pont D'Arc, which was discovered in 1994.

This parietal* art predates the more famous Lascaux, and displays wonderful vigour.

National Geographic has a short, interesting article with more photos.

For completeness, here is Lascaux.

* I love finding new words! I had only encountered 'parietal' in connection with the brain lobes, so it was interesting to learn that 'parietal' derives from "belonging to the wall". The paleolithic artist employed the natural curves of the grotto's walls to lend relief to his art.