Mas d’Azil Spearthrower Replica – Faon aux Oiseaux

The Mas d’Azil spearthrower known as the Faon aux Oiseaux is one of the most distinctive examples of decorated hunting equipment from the European Upper Paleolithic.

Discovered in the Mas-d’Azil cave in Ariège, southern France, the original belongs to the Middle Magdalenian and was carved from reindeer antler. It combines the functional structure of a prehistoric spearthrower with an elaborate sculptural composition, making it an important example of Paleolithic portable art.

Spearthrowers, also known as propulseurs, acted as extensions of the throwing arm, helping to propel long projectiles with greater force. European Paleolithic examples were commonly made with a wooden handle and a distal element in reindeer antler, bone or ivory. The organic wooden components rarely survive archaeologically.

The Mas d’Azil example is traditionally known as the Faon aux Oiseaux or “Fawn with Birds.” The sculpted animal is shown in profile with its head turned toward the rear, accompanied by a distinctive hooked composition traditionally interpreted as birds. The species represented remains debated, with interpretations including a young isard or ibex rather than a deer. 

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

Because every piece is finished individually, subtle variations in coloration and surface markings may occur between replicas.

Its combination of prehistoric technology and figurative sculpture makes this reproduction particularly relevant to collections focused on Paleolithic art, Magdalenian material culture, prehistoric hunting technology and European archaeology, as well as educational displays and specialist collections.

Available Options:

MAS D’AZIL – INDIVIDUAL:

• Dimensions: 27 × 13 × 2.5 cm / 10.63 × 5.12 × 0.98 in
• Weight: 109 g / 3.84 oz
• Material: Resin
• Finish: Individually hand-painted and hand-finished

SPEARTHROWER SET – 2 PIECES:

Includes:

• Mas d’Azil: Faon aux Oiseaux
• Bruniquel Horse Spearthrower

The set brings together two decorated Paleolithic spearthrowers associated with the Magdalenian period, combining prehistoric hunting technology with figurative portable art.

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.