Researchers have discovered intriguing cave engravings in La Roche-Cotard, France, believed to be the work of Neanderthals. These markings, predating the arrival of Homo sapiens in the region, offer further insight into the complexities of our extinct relatives.
The engravings, a series of parallel lines etched onto the cave walls using fingers, are estimated to be between 57,000 and 75,000 years old. La Roche-Cotard, located west of Tours, was sealed off around 57,000 years ago, before Homo sapiens reached Western Europe. This timeline strongly suggests Neanderthal authorship, making these markings potentially the oldest known Neanderthal art.
The main decorated wall in La Roche-Cotard.Neanderthal cave art at La Roche-Cotard. (Image: Marquet et al., PLoS One 2023)
Neanderthals, often mischaracterized as primitive, are now recognized for their sophisticated social structures, cooperative hunting practices, and even rudimentary healthcare. Evidence of their use of fire and their genetic contribution to modern humans further complicates their story. Their disappearance around 40,000 years ago remains a subject of ongoing research.
The suspected Neanderthal artwork found in a French cave.Detailed view of the finger flutings. (Image: Marquet et al., PLoS One 2023)
The dating of the La Roche-Cotard engravings relies on optically stimulated luminescence of the cave sediments. This technique, combined with the absence of Homo sapiens in the region at the time, strengthens the case for Neanderthal creation. Alistair Pike, an archaeologist at the University of Southampton, finds the “finger flutings” convincing, particularly given the secure sealing of the relatively small cave.
Finger fluting in the cave (top) and a graphic showing the number and shape of the markings.Analysis of the finger fluting patterns. (Image: Marquet et al., PLoS One 2023)
However, not all researchers are entirely convinced. Michael Petraglia, director of the Australian Research Centre for Human Evolution, urges caution against over-interpretation. The purpose of the markings remains unclear, and the possibility of multiple individuals contributing over time cannot be ruled out. Petraglia also points to evidence suggesting earlier Homo sapiens presence in France, raising questions about definitive Neanderthal attribution.
While previous discoveries have revealed ancient art by both Neanderthals and Homo sapiens, sometimes even within the same cave (like Spain’s Cueva de Ardales), the La Roche-Cotard findings suggest independent Neanderthal artistic expression. This reinforces the notion of Neanderthal creativity, irrespective of their eventual genetic integration with Homo sapiens.
Further research at La Roche-Cotard, including the analysis of other panels and markings, promises to unveil more about Neanderthal artistic practices. Ongoing advancements in genetics and imaging continue to reshape our understanding of human evolution, illuminating the interactions and technological developments of various hominin species. Further study of caves worldwide will undoubtedly contribute to this evolving narrative.
Published in PLoS One.
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