The Creeping Hyena of La Madeleine

This modern replica depict the Creeping Hyena of La Madeleine Rock shelter in the Dordogne region of France.  It is from the Magdalenian period in the Paleolithic, which dates from ca.12,000 to 17,000 years ago.  The original was carved in mammoth ivory, and shows the carved spur of a spear thrower, called "propulseur" in French.  The piece measures 4 inches by 2 inches, and is made in strong modern epoxy.
  This piece has been a favorite of atlatl enthusiasts and art students alike for its fine detail and display of potential motion in the animal.  It is believed that these fragments were attached to longer sections, possibly wood that was used for a handle.