This woolly mammoth, so beautifully captured in this cave painting of Pech Merle, France, is estimated to be around 25,000 to 20,000 years old. Of special note is the mammoth ‘s long hair, one of the animals defining characteristics. The cave is located in southern France, was blocked by rock falls for many thousands of years, which helped conserve the drawings better than in other caves. The mammoth is the most frequently represented animal in the cave's art, with 28 examples identified. Many are found in a specific area known as the "Mammoths' Chapel" (part of the Black Frieze), a magnificent 7-meter-long panel. The painting is amazingly realistic but evocative at the same time, and provides a glimpse of the animals that once lived in the region during the Upper Paleolithic period. These 1” thick polished blocks stand upright on flat surfaces and are made from a superior cast method for added clarity, depth and realism. The print is created by the Giclee process and has been enlarged for a superb viewing experience. Makes a stunning showpiece on shelf, desk, table!
Photo credit: Heinrich Wendel