Berlin, Aug. 2 (SANA)Archaeologists from the University of Tübingen have uncovered two miniature bird-shaped figurines dating back around 40,000 years at Hohle Fels Cave in southwestern Germany, offering new insight into the sophisticated artistic abilities of early modern humans during the Ice Age.

According to theDaily Mail, the figurines were carved from mammoth ivory and display remarkable craftsmanship despite measuring only a few centimeters in length.

The artefacts measure between 2 and 3 centimeters long, with one weighing approximately 1.3 grams and the other 0.7 grams. They were discovered during meticulous excavations and identified following a detailed examination of sediment recovered from the cave.

Researchers believe the carvings depict birds resembling ptarmigans, a species adapted to the cold climates of the Ice Age. They suggest the objects may have served as personal symbols or played a role in rituals related to identity or social affiliation.

The researchers said producing such finely detailed carvings with prehistoric tools would have required considerable skill, precision and time, highlighting the advanced cultural and artistic development of early modern humans living inEuropetens of thousands of years ago.R.H/R.K