[SunkenCiv]

I'm not down with the "savages" remark -- they had the sophistication to create their art in places under the Earth that were (and still are) difficult to reach and difficult to illuminate without asphyxiating themselves. And they didn't try to foist it off on everyone regardless if they could appreciate it. ;^)

[Bob Ireland]

***I'm not down with the "savages" remark -- they had the sophistication to create their art in places under the Earth that were (and still are) difficult to reach and difficult to illuminate without asphyxiating themselves***

Too right! And we hear about the Egyptians digging deep warrens in the Valley of the Kings with elaborate art and plaster work, but never hear about the fact that there is no suet from torches on the walls or ceilings - hundreds of feet underground.

[JimRed]

I'm not down with the "savages" remark

IIUC, savage relates to behavior, not to intelligence or lack of sophistication.