Animal Influences in Paleolithic, Egyptian and Greek Art There are numerous ways in which animals have resonated within the Throughout history there have been representations rangingfrom the realistic, to myths, legends, symbols, and even horrific murderousbeasts; at the same time providing fascinating perspectives of our ownhumanity. Various forms of art have conveyed ideas and concepts ofanimals intelligence, as well as behavior, from generation to generation.Animal art is used as a tool to make the connection between differentcultures at different time periods and it relates historical and symbolicmeanings. In most cultures animals have been linked with the supernaturalforces which were believed to control the natural world and the destiny ofhumans. They were often revered as the agents. or associates, of gods,and goddesses, and were even the focus of worship as deities. Followingthe tracks of historical animal art, through the human imaginationintroduces a trail of creativity and unsurpassed beauty.Paleolithic art: Cave paintings are the earliest known example of human art dating40,000 to 8,000 BCE. The paintings mainly feature various animalsrunning, sleeping, and eating. Some also contain a few humans,geometrical shapes, and even hand prints. The artist used permanentfeatures like ceilings, floors, and walls of rock shelters and caves as theircanvas. Pigments of black, yellow, red, and brown were utilized to displaythe observations of animals. The painters gathered a great deal ofinformation about finding food, and which foods were safe to eat or tohunt, by closely observing animals. The valuable information was passed toothers through the detailes in the artwork. The construction of the figuresare sporadic over uneven surfaces and small confined areas in the caves.Paintings in this position would have been difficult to view, and may not besimple decorations, but possess a special or spiritual purpose. Researchers, took what t...
