These bison were prominently positioned at the centre of a small, difficult to reach chamber deep in the cave system of Tuc d’Audoubert. Made from unbaked clay, the composition depicts the larger bull positioned behind a cow. Their bodies were moulded by hand and still show finger marks. The details of the heads and necks were carved or incised using tools. The tail of the cow, now broken off, was raised ready for mating. European bison mate in September just before the onset of winter. Did the sculptures mark a visit or ceremony at this time of year?.

Le Tuc d’Audoubert cave, Ariège, France.

Read more about the Bradshaw Foundation visit to view the c. 14,000 year old Bull and Cow Bison found in the Le Tuc d'Audoubert cave, Ariege, France click here.

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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