This figurine can only be dated on stylistic grounds because it was an isolated find made by workmen. Made of steatite, it is pointed at both ends and the tallest of all the known figures. The head has a pyramidal shape with a ridge where the face should be. The shoulders are not well defined and the upper arms curve round into full breasts which are placed high. The stomach is narrow but prominent above the sexual triangle. The buttocks stick out prominently above the tapering legs.
Village of Savignano, near Modena, Italy.
Pigorini Museum, Rome.
Culture which succeeded the Gravettian about 22,000 years ago and lasted until 17,000 years ago in some areas. Identified at the Solutré site in east-central France near Mâcon, and found mostly in France and Spain, the Solutrean is famous for its exquisite flint-knapping.
Source: Dr Jean Clottes