15,000-Year-Old Female Figurine Unearthed in France Sheds Light on Upper Paleolithic Art

Archaeologists in France have discovered a 15,000-year-old female figurine, offering insights into the artistic and cultural expressions of the Upper Paleolithic period. The discovery was made in the Dordogne region of southwestern France, near Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil, during excavations led by the French National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS). The figurine, approximately 8 centimeters in length, is carved from mammoth ivory and depicts exaggerated female features, including wide hips, prominent breasts, and a stylized face. These characteristics are similar to those found in "Venus figurines" associated with the Gravettian culture. According to Prof. Randall White from Paris-Sorbonne University, such figurines are believed to have symbolized fertility and abundance. Radiocarbon dating confirms the figurine dates back to around 13,000 BC. Dr. Marie Soressi from CNRS noted that the discovery site also contained stone tools and animal bones, suggesting the figurine was likely created within a ritual context rather than as a mere everyday object. Microscopic analysis revealed traces of red ochre pigment on the figurine's surface, further supporting its use in ceremonial practices. Historians have also potentially rediscovered the Marius Canal in Southern France, built by Roman soldiers under General Gaius Marius between 104 and 102 BC. Geological and geographical studies support the theory that the remains of a canal south of Arles match the historical canal. The canal was built to connect the city of Arles directly to the Mediterranean Sea, ensuring the safe and rapid passage of Roman supply ships without navigating the Rhone River delta. The Kimbrerkrigen was defeated in 101 BC.