Answer :
In the context of prehistoric art in Europe, the Paleolithic and Neolithic periods of the Stone Age were categorized based on distinct characteristics and developments:
1. Paleolithic Period:
- Known as the "Old Stone Age," it dates back to about 2.5 million years ago.
- Art from this period consists mainly of cave paintings and portable art, such as sculptures and engravings.
- Paleolithic art primarily focused on animals, hunting scenes, and symbols, reflecting the lifestyle and beliefs of early humans.
2. Neolithic Period:
- Referred to as the "New Stone Age," it followed the Paleolithic period around 10,000 BCE.
- Art during this period expanded to include pottery, architecture, and more stylized forms of representation.
- Neolithic art often depicted agricultural activities, fertility symbols, and communal rituals, showcasing the shift towards settled communities and farming practices.
By understanding these distinctions, researchers and historians can analyze how art evolved alongside human civilization during the Paleolithic and Neolithic periods of the Stone Age in Europe.