First Stone Carvings explores the dawn of human artistic expression by examining the earliest deliberate marks and figures etched into stone. These prehistoric carvings acted as fundamental forms of communication and ritual practice, offering insights into the cognitive capabilities of early humans. The book argues that these carvings represent a critical juncture in human cognitive development, reflecting the emergence of abstract thought.
The book begins by introducing the methods for analyzing Paleolithic art, such as dating carvings and identifying tools used. It then investigates specific examples of carvings categorized by region and subject matter, analyzing their potential meaning and context. Cognitive archaeology is integrated with art historical analysis, emphasizing the cognitive processes that underpin the creation and interpretation of these carvings.
Concluding with a synthesis of the findings, the book proposes a framework for understanding the role of stone carvings in the evolution of human culture and cognition. This study provides a comprehensive overview, connecting to various fields like anthropology and art history, making it valuable to academics and general readers interested in the origins of human creativity.
