Lascaux Cave – Key Concepts
Discovery and Early Exploration
Lascaux Cave was discovered on 09/08/1940 by Marcel Ravidin and friends, who then informed their schoolteacher, Leon Laval, and Abbot Henri Breuil. Post-war, news spread widely, leading to extensive studies by Maurice Taon and Abbot Glory. Initial visitor influx and inadequate air systems caused damage (algae, calcite crystals), leading to the cave's closure in 1963 and the opening of a replica, Lascaux 2, twenty years later.
Cave Formation and Structure
The caves formed from water dissolving limestone, with a clay layer preventing stalactites. The network is 250 meters long, featuring distinct areas like the Great Hall of the Bulls, the Painted Gallery, and the Chamber of Engravings. The Great Hall of the Bulls is approximately 6{-}9 meters across and 20 meters long, with a vault height of 5 meters.
Lighting, Tools, and Access
Paleolithic painters used animal fat lamps (over 100 found), ground fires, and resin-based torches. To reach elevated areas, they utilized ladders made from tree trunks and natural ledges. A fragment of rope suggests methods for descending into deeper sections.
Palette, Painting Techniques, and Sculpture
The palette was limited to red (ochre), yellow (ochre), black (manganese oxide), and white (calcite), often used in monochrome or two-color scenes. Techniques included blow painting (via hollow bones/reeds), spitting for shading, and brushwork (horsehair brushes). Figures were sometimes reworked, stamped with animal skins, or augmented with carvings for details or to create new figures.
Materials, Engravings, and Tools
Numerous worn flints were found, used for fine lines and broad strokes. Carving primarily enhanced color contrasts and added perspective after painting. Decoration also extended to personal artifacts during the Magdalenian period.
Fauna, Themes, and Symbolism
Depicted fauna includes orrochs, horses, deer, goats, cave lions, and a woolly rhinoceros. Reindeer, though central to life, are minimally depicted. Various signs and blazons accompany the animal figures.
Archaeology, Society, and Preservation
The site yielded color pigments and thousands of stones. Natural rock formations influenced figure placement. Tourism significantly compromised the site, necessitating environmental controls. Ongoing studies highlight the sophistication of Paleolithic artists working in challenging environments.
Summary points for quick recall
Discovery: 09/08/1940; public exposure led to deterioration; closed in 1963; Lascaux 2 replica opened circa 1983.
Structure: Network of galleries, approximately 250 m total; key areas include Great Hall of the Bulls, Painted Gallery, and Chamber of Engravings.
Chronology: Cro Magnon era; most Lascaux paintings date to the early Magdalenian phase, 17{,}200–15{,}500 years ago.
Palette and technique: Limited colors (red, yellow, black, white); methods included blow painting, spitting, brushwork, and stamping; ladders used for high areas.
Subjects: Orrochs, horses, deer, bison, goats, cave lions, rhinoceros; signs and motifs; minimal animal bone remains.
Preservation: Algae and calcite issues from tourism; environmental controls implemented; replicas provide educational access while protecting the original site.