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Standing Bison, Altamira Cave, Spain, c. 15,000 B.C.E

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Though the Prehistoric era could be divided into three distinct groups, (those being the Paleolithic, Mesolithic, and Neolithic), cave art and paintings left on walls of caves were found throughout. One of the earliest prehistoric caves with evidence of these paintings were discovered in Altamira, Spain. Here we see the common theme of scenes depicting animals painted using crushed ocher turned into a powder and mixed with water.

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One of the earliest forms of writing can be traced back to the Sumerians and their Cuneiform writing. This was done by pressing wedges onto a clay tablet. Not only is this significant for being one of the earliest forms of writing, but also for how developed it was enough to be grammatically complex. So much so that it led to the development of one of the oldest epics, the Epic of Gilgamesh.

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One of the most famous rituals to come out of Ancient Egypt is the belief surrounding and the practice of mummification. A delicate practice that occurs over the span of 70 days, mummification is Egypt's answer to honoring their dead and their journey into the afterlife. Faces were often decorated in masks that match their facial features made of gold.

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With the abundance of marble found in the Aegean civilizations, the Aegean formed these abstract cycladic idols. These sculptures varied in what figures they depicted and size, though usually ranging from a few inches to up to five feet. They are thought to be offerings to the dead or hold some religious significance. It is not uncommon for these idols to be women, and/or depict a figure playing an instrument.

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Of the many influential artistic movements the Ancient Greek have offered future civilizations, one of the most significant are their contributions to literature and drama. Serving as the precedent to Western theater, Greek Drama integrated several practices into its art from. From masks portraying emotion, to the presentation in the architectural development of the amphitheater, the Ancient Greek's approach to Drama can be felt to this day.

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An Introduction to Greek Theatre | National Theatre

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In the same way every civilization has their own unique cultural interpretation to the dead and the after life, the Etruscans are no different. To them, the tombs were considered living spaces for their dead. For that reason, these tomb paintings could be found often depicting theatrical scenes of mourning and protection for their deceased. Often, these would be frescoes.

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Among several other developmental marvels, the Ancient Romans were especially known for their architecture. Not only did they build lasting roads, canals, and aqueducts, they did so with their signature use of curved forms, such as the arches. This use of the arch can be seen in all of their major spectacle builds, such as the aforementioned aqueducts, the Basilica, the Circus Maximus, and the Pantheon.

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Early Christian & Byzantine Art - Church of San Vitale

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Early Christian & Byzantine Art - Church of San Vitale

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Early Christian art is mentioned as the interpretation of Roman art translated through a Christian perspective, considering Christians were prosecuted by the Romans in their early stages. At least until the Roman Empire ended under the rule of Justinian and his establishment of the Byzantine Empire. Under Justinian's rule, he sought to unite the early Christian world through the development of the Church of San Vitale. The Church of San Vitale stands out from other churches for its central planning.

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The Art of the Early Middle Ages - Viking Shipmaking

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The Art of the Early Middle Ages - Viking Shipmaking

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Several civilizations throughout Europe witnessed historic booms throughout the continent during the Middle Ages. One of the groups that proved themselves a dangerous force were the Vikings. Though notorious for terrorizing and raiding towns across Europe, the Vikings were master shipbuilders. Little authentic Viking ships remain today due to the deterioration of wood. Regardless, for their time, the Vikings were advanced in their sailing, crafting ships that floated across even the worst sea conditions. These ships were often decorated with designs and their known animal-head posts. It's believed these heads of animals served as guides that protected the Vikings.

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Boats and boating--Equipment and supplies