The cave art of France’s Dordogne region is world-famous for the mythology and beauty of its remarkable drawings and paintings. These ancient images of lively bison; horses; and mammoths; as well as symbols of all kinds; are fascinating touchstones in the development of human culture; demonstrating how far humankind has come and reminding us of the ties that bind us across the ages. Over more than twenty-five years of teaching and research; Christine Desdemaines-Hugon has become an unrivaled expert in the cave art and artists of the Dordogne region. In her new book she combines her expertise in both art and archaeology to convey an intimate understanding of the “cave experience.†Her keen insights communicate not only the incomparable artistic value of these works but also the near-spiritual impact of viewing them for oneself. Focusing on five fascinating sites; including the famed Font de Gaume and others that still remain open to the public; Stepping-Stones reveals striking similarities between art forms of the Paleolithic and works of modern artists and gives us a unique pathway toward understanding the culture of the Dordogne Paleolithic peoples and how it still touches our lives today.
#1071199 in Books 2014-06-24Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.50 x 6.50 x 1.25l; 1.46 #File Name: 0300178840296 pages
Review
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. A National Security TreasureBy Bing WestA National Security TreasureFor those interested in security matters in Afghanistan and Pakistan - and that should include our Pentagon; State Department and White House - Dr. Abbas is a national security treasure. While I do not know him personally; his book about the Taliban revival is that rare combination of deep geopolitical expertise and clear English narrative. For the reader; he begins by posing a mystery: how could the Taliban; thoroughly defeated physically and psychologically in 2001; regain power and fight to a standstill in American military that invested hundreds of billions of dollars and 100;000 well-trained troops? Dr. Abbas then proceeds; chapter by chapter; to solve the mystery by educating the reader in the complicated post-1960s histories of Pakistan and Afghanistan.This book is a credit to the National Defense University for employing Dr. Abbas and encouraging research and writing that positively contributes to a deeper understanding of a critical and complex subject. Yale University Press is also to be congratulated for editing and publishing a clear and expert contribution to our geopolitical knowledge.- Bing West1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Great book by a great author on the TalibanBy Dan WilsonGreat book by a great author on the Taliban. A must for anyone who wants to understand more about the issues in this part of the world and how it affects the U.S. It also reveals the failures of the U.S. on many levels which is also necessary for understanding this region and its people.2 of 3 people found the following review helpful. A different take on the subject! certainly a must buy!By Aakash TolaniThis one is different to what is usually out there! However; it is well argued; balanced and gives new dimensions to the subject. I for one; particularly enjoyed reading the book. Abbas adds humor in it; which lightens ones mood while reading on such a serious issue. The language and tone of book keeps the reader interested. Chapters are linked pretty well. One does not have to look back and forth to revise basics; as Abbas has given information on many sub-topics and critical issues repeatedly. This certainly gets the message to the reader loud and clear. I do not place this book in the 'Pakistan is perpetrator of all crimes' camp; nor do I put it in the "Pakistan is a victim from all corners" camp. From my own readings; I conclude it is a well-balanced account of things. The personal insights of the author are indeed thought provoking. I suggest if one is buying books authored by usual western names out there; this one ought to be bought to at least have another or rather Pakistani security (not defense!) personnel's perspective to the issue.
