The Cresswell Horsehead: The Oldest Art Ever Found in Britain (Video)

The Cresswell Horsehead stands as a significant archaeological discovery, representing the oldest example of art found in Britain. This ancient artifact, dating back to the end of the Ice Age over 11,000 years ago, is a carved representation of a horse's head inscribed on a rib fragment. Found within the Robin Hood Cave in Cresswell Crags, Derbyshire in 1876, the Cresswell Horsehead showcases remarkable craftsmanship, highlighting the artist's attention to detail and skill in capturing the anatomical features of the horse. Its presence in a cave suggests potential ceremonial or symbolic importance to the people of that era, shedding light on their cultural and possibly spiritual practices.

The discovery of the Cresswell Horsehead offers valuable insights into the creative capabilities and symbolic thinking of our prehistoric ancestors. This art piece provides a tangible connection to the past, offering a glimpse into the lives and mindset of those who inhabited the region during a time of climatic and environmental challenges. By studying and preserving artifacts like the Cresswell Horsehead, we gain a deeper understanding of our shared human history and the evolution of artistic expression.

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Top image: The Creswell Horsehead. Source: Trustees of the British Museum / CC by SA 4.0.

By Robbie Mitchell