Paleolithic Art and Stonehenge

What type of system was used to construct Stonehenge?

During which period was the double ring of bluestones erected at Stonehenge?

From which geographic area were the bluestones of Stonehenge transported?

How many trilithons were part of the ringed enclosure in the third stage of Stonehenge's construction?

What theory is supported by the alignment of Stonehenge with the sun during the solstices?

What is the approximate height of the Woman of Willendorf figurine?

What material was used to create the Woman of Willendorf?

What is a common interpretation of the textured pattern on the Woman of Willendorf's head?

What is the primary interpretation of the posture and tiny feet of the Woman of Willendorf figurine?

What was the original color of the Woman of Willendorf?

What is a characteristic of Stonehenge?

During what period was Stonehenge built and rebuilt?

What was a feature associated with communal gatherings at causewayed enclosures before the construction of Stonehenge?

Woman of Willendorf

Date: 24,000-22,000 BCE
Material: Oolitic limestone
Height: 11.1 cm (4.4 inches)
Location: Naturhistorisches Museum, Vienna
Discovery: Found in 1908 near Willendorf, Austria
Features: Focuses on female anatomy; substantial belly, deep navel, wide hips, clearly defined vulva, slender arms wrapping around full breasts, highly textured pattern possibly representing a textile (knitted cap or braided hair).
Significance: Represents a figurine from the Upper Paleolithic period, suggesting artistic focus on the female form. Its posture and small feet suggest it was meant to be held, not standing.

Stonehenge

Date: 2900-1500 BCE
Location: Salisbury Plain, southern England, Wiltshire
Type: Megalithic stone circle
Materials: Huge pieces of gray sandstone
Construction: Underwent repeated phases of construction and rebuilding over a millennium; initial circle, later addition of bluestones, and reorganization of bluestones between trilithons and a sandstone circle.
Bluestones: Transported from Preseli Hills in Wales (at least 240 miles). Used to create a double ring within the enclosure.
Sandstone monoliths: More massive than bluestones; formed a horseshoe shaped layout with trilithons (three stone structures).
Megalithic building practices: Part of a broader trend of megalithic construction in Neolithic Europe, including causewayed enclosures and communal feasting areas.
Possible function: Stonehenge's use likely involved astronomical observation (alignments with solstices) and communal gathering rituals.

Explore the fascinating world of Paleolithic art through the examination of the Woman of Willendorf and the iconic megalithic structure, Stonehenge. Discover their historical significance, construction, and artistic features that represent early human creativity and cultural beliefs.