Prehistoric Site Locked Behind Closed Doors
Tourists can now flock to see prehistoric art in France
If you have studied ancient history or art history then you are probably aware that some of the oldest art every found is located in what is now southern France.
Sealed inside caves for 20,000 years, the Chauvet cave was rediscovered in 1994 by three french cavers.
Many people think that these cave paintings are primitive and simplistic. That is far from the truth.
Painted in charcoal and red ochre, or etched into the limestone, careful shading and skilful technique bring the animals to life, revealing movement and depth.
“They are very sophisticated,” says Marie Bardisa, the head curator at the Chauvet Cave – which is also known as the Decorated Cave of Pont d’Arc. She delights in this rare chance to show off the art.
“They used the relief of the rock to give the forms, to give the shadows, to express so many things.
Because even our breath can damage the paintings, Chauvet’s cave has been closed to all but a few historians.
After 8 years, we may all take a deep breath AND stare in awe at the works inside the cave.
The entire cave has been reproduced so that we can get the full affect.
Original article By Rebecca Morelle and Stuart Denman BBC Newsnight
Photo DRAC Rhone-Alpes Ministry of Culture
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If you have studied ancient history or art history then you are probably aware that some of the oldest art every found is located in what is now southern France.
