Towards the end of the last Ice Age representations of women became more abstract, their bodies reduced to show the essential elements of their sexuality. Whether they are sculpted as figurines, made as pendants or engraved on rocks, these figures have narrow, parallel-sided headless bodies which may or may not have a breast.

Seen in profile, the slim torso then curves out beautifully to demonstrate feminine hips and thighs. The lower legs are rarely included. This example is made from reindeer antler.

Nebra open site near Altenburg, Saxon-Anhalt, Germany.

Das Landesmuseum für Vorgeschichte, Halle and der Saale, Germany.

The most widely-spread and best-known Palaeolithic culture, which started around 17,000 years ago and ended around 11,000 years ago. Its name derives from the La Madeleine site in Dordogne, France. Some of the high points in cave art in all its forms - sculpture, black drawings, polychrome painting, modelling and engraving - are to be found in this period.

Source: Dr Jean Clottes

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