What are some plausible explanations for Upper Palaeolithic cave art?

The selection of religious rituals and shamanism as a plausible explanation for Upper Palaeolithic cave art is supported by the anthropological understanding of how early humans may have engaged with their spiritual beliefs and the natural world. This artistic expression often contained symbolic motifs that could represent the cultural and spiritual practices of the communities, including rituals aimed at invoking or appeasing deities or spirits. Many cave paintings depict animals and human figures, which could be interpreted as part of hunt-related rituals, with the artwork serving as more than mere decoration; it likely had a significant role in the belief systems of these communities.

This perspective aligns with the idea that cave art served a functional role in the lives of Upper Palaeolithic people, offering insights into their relationship with the environment and their spiritual world. Ritualistic practices involving these depictions might have been designed to enhance hunting success, convey important cultural narratives, or foster a sense of shared identity within the group.

While decorative purposes, indication of territory, and simple forms of communication have their merits, they do not fully capture the depth and complexity that religious rituals and shamanism may represent in the context of Upper Palaeolithic cave art. Therefore, focusing on the ritualistic and spiritual aspects provides a richer understanding