In Blombos Cave, South Africa, archaeologists have found what they think could be the earliest artist’s studio. “Ochre” is the term archaeologists use to describe dirt or rock that contains red or yellow oxides, or hydroxides of iron; it is basically early paint. Researchers found hammers and grindstones that could have been used to make this ochre powder in the cave. Additionally, they found two sea snail shells called abalone shells that probably served as containers to store a red concoction of ochre, bone and charcoal. Pigment residue on one of the bones suggests it was used for stirring and transferring the mixture out of the shell. All this evidence comes together to indicate that our early Homo sapien ancestors had a basic knowledge of chemistry, the ability to make long-term plans, and a wish to make art that would last beyond themselves. (from CNN)
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