Venus of Hohle Fels

This is a picture of what is believed to be the oldest known sculpture to date, according to many archaeologists. Known as the "Venus of Hohle Fels" after its discovery in the Hohle Fels cave of Germany in September 2008, this small, 6 centimeter sculpture is well over 35,000 years old. The figurine depicts a very heavy-set woman, with a central emphasis on her large breasts and vagina (much like the Venus of Willendorf). In addition, the woman also has a thick stomach and wide hips. In the back, the buttocks is also broad and detailed. The arms and legs, however, are considerably smaller in comparison, and the head is nowhere to be found. The exaggerated yet careful details of the breasts and vagina, as well as the disregard of other body parts, showcase what feminine characteristics were most valued at the time. The huge breasts, buttocks, and encorged vagina held much importance, as it could have represented a strong sense of sexuality. They could also represent fertility, as the breasts are swollen much like that of a breast-feeding mother, and the hips are strong and wide for giving birth. Also, the sculpture was made entirely of wolly mammoth ivory, which was believed to be a symbol of fertility in itself. Depicting the woman as overweight could also represent power, as fat at the time could enhance sustenance and survival. In contrast, the small legs, arms, and non-existent head showcased that these body parts were not valued on a woman, probably because intelligence and a strong set of legs and arms were seen as a male characteristic. Overall, the "Venus of Hohle Fels," with its large specific attributes, depicted the ideal woman 35,000 years ago in what is now present-day Germany.