Dart thrower sculpted in the form of a horse
Courbet Cave, Penne, France
Antler
Length: 13.7 cms
The British Museum
Palart.451
This unweighted spear thrower in the form of a horse is made on a rod extracted from a newly grown antler. The depiction of the animal seen face on from the front is found on fewer than ten spear throwers all of which come from the eastern Pyrenees. It ingeniously utilises the shape of the material and enables the artist to realise the required functionality of the weapon. The head, chest and front legs of the horse are carved in relief but the tiny ears are delicately sculpted in the round like the horse’s forelock that forms the hook. Given the size and delicacy of this piece it is possibly for launching lighter spears or darts. Very fine dart tips found at this site and its riverside location suggest the possible use of fishing spears.
Close