Note # 26 — in the Levant. I wonder if that is just the tip of broader cultural diffusion into the Middle-East (lost through time under the footprint of successive successful civilizations.)
Ooh, thanks again!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lion_man_of_the_Hohlenstein_Stadel
[snip] A lion headed figure, first called the lion man... then the lion lady... is an ivory sculpture that is the oldest known zoomorphic (animal-shaped) sculpture in the world and one of the oldest known sculptures in general. The sculpture has also been interpreted as anthropomorphic, giving human characteristics to an animal, although it may have represented an unfactual presence deity. The figurine was determined to be about 32,000 years old[1][2] by carbon dating material from the same layer in which the sculpture was found. It is associated with the archaeological Aurignacian culture.[3] [/snip]
Note # 26 — in the Levant. I wonder if that is just the tip of broader cultural diffusion into the Middle-East (lost through time under the footprint of successive successful civilizations.)
Really not trying to pee on anybody's parade, but WHY haven't they carbon dated the figurine itself instead of just estimating it's age by the age of the material at the same level?
I think the subject matter is fascinating, but for all I know, that damn statue has Made In Taiwan stamped on it's...