Paleolithic Flint Handaxe from Prehistoric Northern France

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About the Item

A remarkably fine and perfectly preserved example of the earliest human technology, knapped from a nodule of blackbrown flint. Dull when freshly knapped, flint can acquire an intense lustre over countless years of silica precipitation. Here, the glasslike surface and deep, black-purple patina is the result of silica precipitation from groundwater into tiny pores within the stone. An accidental embellishment, highlighting not just the hue of the flint, but the skilful knapping of its anonymous maker. Around 1.7 million years ago, occurred the dawn of the first human technology: the Acheulean. Accompanying the evolution of a larger-brained form of the genus Homo, the leaf-shape or teardrop stone tool is an almost iconic representation of our early ancestors, Homo heidelbergensis and Homo erectus. Developing from the more primitive Oldowan technology, where a stone core had just one or two chips removed to create an edge, Acheulean hand axes constitute one of the major transitions in human evolution. The early hominin could now produce a beautiful geometric stone axe with edges of glass-like sharpness; a multi-purpose tool that provided the means for survival in a harsh environment. Lasting from c.1.7 million to c.100,000 years ago, the Acheulean industry remains the most widespread and enduring human technology ever created. As an integral part of early human biological and psychological development, Acheulean axes are also known to the modern mind as the stone that ‘shattered the time barrier’. The discovery of Acheulean hand axes alongside fossilised animal remains by 19th century archaeologists alerted them to the existence of humans in a time well before the Biblical Flood. By shifting temporal perceptions of the human race, these stone tools challenged the prevailing narrative of the Creation. Their discovery has significantly shaped our understanding of our ancestors, and today, they are also invaluable markers of early human distribution around the globe. PROVENANCE: Oise, Northern France (by repute). Collection of Jean-Claude Debenne (1936-2020). Exported under CBC 242804. PUBLISHED: ArtAncient, Before Art, Frieze Masters, 2023, No. 21

Dimensions:
Height: 5.4 in (13.7 cm)Diameter: 3.15 in (8 cm)
Materials and Techniques:
Stone
Period:
15th Century and Earlier
Date of Manufacture:
Circa .700,000 - 300,000 BC
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use.
Seller Location:
London, GB
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU1052244850892

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