FFCC Formative: Interpreting Prehistoric Art

Which of the following best describes the function of the Great Hall of the Bulls?

• It was created as a personal self-portrait by an individual artist

• It was likely used to decorate homes for aesthetic purposes

• It may have been part of a ritual to influence hunting outcomes or tell shared stories

• It was created as a political message to neighboring tribes

Which pairing best represents Form and Function in a prehistoric artwork?

• Engraved lines and limestone / Symbolism in modern graffiti

• Natural rock overhang / Decoration of a burial casket

• Pigment on cave walls with overlapping animals / Storytelling or ritual practice

• Abstract geometric shapes / Advertisement in ancient markets

Which of the following types of evidence would be most helpful in interpreting the cultural meaning of a prehistoric artwork?
(Select all that apply)

• The location where the object was found

• Similar artifacts from nearby sites

• The artist's personal diary

• The artwork’s materials and style

• Modern interpretations of the piece in pop culture

Match each vocabulary term to its correct definition or example:

• Ritual use

• Artwork likely involved in communal or spiritual activity

• Context

• An image that stands for a larger belief or idea

• Symbolism

• The time, place, and culture in which the artwork was made

• Communal identity

• Shared values or roles reflected in visual choices

What artwork was your group assigned?

Based on your group’s assigned artwork, what do you think it was used for?

What evidence supports that interpretation?

How confident are you in your group’s understanding of the artifact’s original cultural role?

[ All answers are correct :) ]

• Very confident

• Somewhat confident

• Still unclear and would like some support/clarification