Experts have placed the drawing to the end of the Ice Age within a period between 15,000 to 10,000 BC.
The Stag was clearly venerated by our ancestors, not just for its meat,
but as a symbol suggesting masculine force, a powerful energy that
exudes life energy, virility and fertility.
Thus the sorcerer’s dance portrays raw force and connection with
humankind’s most ancient beliefs. Only a powerful shaman and elder would
be entitled to wear such costume, using it as part of a ritual to enter
the spiritual aspect of the natural world of the Stag and internalize
aspects of this powerful animal’s character.
Thus the portrayal of this Shaman tells us that he aspired to, or
was, the equivalent in his community: a proven, fertile father, a noble
hunter, a defender of his herd – and in tune with the life and world of
the forest. As the king of the forest the Stag also represents
hierarchy, and a Shaman wearing this costume would be acting out
leadership – his authority made the first laws.
In Tarot this image corresponds with the Emperor.
This ancient drawing instantly connects us to Shamanism, spirituality,
and the dance rituals of our ancient forefathers and gives us insight
into their world. It reminds us that humans have always had a
fascination for the spiritual, and a respect for nature.
EJS