Question

How did the discovery of the cave paintings at Altamira change perceptions of ancient cultures?
(2 points)
identified capabilities far exceed previous beliefs
identified the importance of hunting
identified a variety of colors previously unknown
identified process of spiritual quests for individuals
A)
What preserved the art of Altamira until modern day?
(2 points)
the Paleolithic inhabitants sealed off the cave once all the walls and ceilings had been painted
the Paleolithic inhabitants covered their artwork with a layer of animal fat to protect the paintings
a natural collapse at the end of the Upper Paleolithic period
an intentional collapse by the people of the Upper Paleolithic period

Answer 1

1) How did the discovery change perceptions of ancient cultures?
Answer: identified capabilities far exceed previous beliefs.
Why: Altamira’s sophisticated, naturalistic paintings showed Paleolithic people had far greater artistic skill and cognitive complexity than previously thought.

2) What preserved the art of Altamira until modern day?
Answer: a natural collapse at the end of the Upper Paleolithic period.
Why: a rockfall sealed the cave, protecting the paintings from weather and human disturbance.