Derek Hodgson 
Roots of Visual Depiction in Art [PDF ebook] 
Neuroarchaeology, Neuroscience and Evolution

Why ancient humans first began to represent animals is a question that has led to a bewildering number of theories since cave art was discovered in the 19th century. Drawing on insights from visual science, evolution, and art theory, the book takes the reader on a unique and intriguing journey showing how the development of visual imagery in the human brain throughout evolution eventually led to the first figurative depictions of animals 37, 000 years ago.