The Venus of Brassempouy
This prehistoric figurine is the oldest known realistic depiction of a human face.

📜 Fragmentary ivory figurine from the Upper Palaeolithic, Gravettian industry.
🔍 One of the earliest known realistic representations of a human face, carved from mammoth ivory, estimated to be around 25,000 years old, and discovered in 1894.

Why Go

🗿 Marvel at a 25,000-year-old human face sculpture
🏛️ Discover prehistoric artifacts at the National Archaeological Museum
📚 Learn about Ice Age life and early human artistry

Why Avoid

⚠️ Original figurine not on permanent public display, only a cast can be seen
🚫 Viewing of original requires reservation

Tips

📍 Located at Musée d'Archéologie Nationale in Saint-Germain-en-Laye
🖼️ Casts are available for public viewing at the museum and La Maison de la Dame à Brassempouy

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