-
The Neolithic period, also known as the New Stone age, was the beginning of the agricultural revolution. This changed the way in which man functioned in everyday life and how they created art. Becoming agricultural people allowed groups to stay in one place and begin to develop the first urban societies. Sedentary life also allowed specialized work to form in weaving, pottery, metal work, etc. Art becomes more permanent and specialized, requiring much more organization and leadership.
-
c. 7500 BCE, Animal remains and Plaster, Catalhoyuk. Here we are able to "one of man's most important transformations: from nomad to settler". (Dr. Senta German, 2025) In addition, we see art take a new shape in the daily life of the citizens. One of the most fascinating to me is the Bull Bucrania, as it potentially serves not only spiritual purpose but also ornamentation of the home or interior design. It is a prime example of art intertwining with the daily routine of man. -
c. 7200 BCE, Plastered human skull, Jericho. The interpretation of the skulls of Jericho have varied throughout the years. Most recently the discovery of many coming from bodies of women and children, it is believed that these many have been used as an aid in the process of grief. Perhaps used as a way to preserve the presence of a loved one. (Dr. Senta German, 2018) The number of skulls that have been found indicate that this was a common practice for everyone and not just religious elite. -
c. 5000 BCE, Stone, 29 1/2' ht, Brittany, France. What I find the most interesting about works such as this is the magnitude of organization, strength and ingenuity that was required for completion. More than that was the leadership. These works can be viewed as a sign of power. Placing a giant stone up in this way is representative of strong, effective leadership. This marks a period of which we see rulers continue to go bigger and bigger to assert dominance. -
c. 2500-1600 BCE, Stone Rock Art, Salisbury Plain, Wiltshire, England. Built in 3 phases and possibly the most famous work from the Neolithic period, Stonehenge is an incredible feat of not only human's shaping artistic ability but also ingenuity. Widely believed to function as a solar and lunar calendar, demonstrates changes in the new agricultural world. Stonehenge is also remarkable in the amount of organization and specialization it took to be completed, marking a change in prioritization. -
c. 3200 BCE, Architecture, County Meath, Ireland. Little is known about the exact function of Newgrange, but it is thought to be a spiritual center or tomb. One of the most fascinating details is the megaliths solar alignment. This demonstrates human's early fascination with the solar system and the impact it had on their daily lives, primarily as new aggrecans. We also see great development in calculation and construction.