Bruniquel Horse Spearthrower Replica – Paleolithic Art

The Bruniquel Horse Spearthrower, traditionally known as the Cheval bondissant de Bruniquel, is one of the most distinctive examples of Magdalenian portable art from the European Upper Paleolithic.

The original was discovered at Bruniquel, in Tarn-et-Garonne, southern France, in a Magdalenian archaeological context. Carved from reindeer antler, the piece represents a horse in a dynamic leaping position, with the forelegs folded beneath the chest and the hind limbs extended along the shaft.

The sculptor made careful use of the natural form of the antler to create movement and volume. Details such as the nostrils, eyes, ears, mane, hooves, tail and areas of the coat were represented with remarkable precision, making the piece one of the most expressive examples of Paleolithic animal sculpture.

Because of its elongated shape, the object has traditionally been interpreted as a spearthrower or propulseur. However, the absence of a preserved hook means that its original function cannot be confirmed with complete certainty. It is therefore best understood both as a possible hunting implement and as an important work of Magdalenian portable art. 

Layered ivory, beige, ochre and earthy brown tones are applied to emphasize the sculpted horse, engraved details and irregular surface of the piece. Darker pigments settle into recesses and incisions, while raised areas retain lighter worn tones, recreating the visual character of aged carved antler.

As each piece is finished individually, slight variations in tone, markings and surface texture may occur between replicas.

Its combination of prehistoric animal sculpture, Magdalenian archaeology and possible hunting technology makes this reproduction especially suitable for collections focused on Paleolithic art, European prehistory, archaeology and portable art, as well as educational and specialist collections.

Available Options:

BRUNIQUEL – INDIVIDUAL

• Dimensions: 27 × 3 × 1 cm / 10.6 × 1.18 × 0.39 in
• Weight: 63 g / 2.22 oz
• Scale: Approx. 1:1
  
• Material: Resin
• Finish: Individually hand-painted and hand-finished
  

SPEARTHROWER SET – 2 PIECES

Includes:

• Bruniquel Horse
• Mas d’Azil – Faon aux Oiseaux

The set brings together two emblematic examples of Magdalenian portable art associated with prehistoric hunting technology and animal sculpture.

Each reproduction is individually hand-painted and hand-finished.

Customs Notice:

Import duties and taxes are not included in the item price or shipping cost. Any customs fees or import charges are the responsibility of the buyer.