Which artifact is commonly associated with the Neolithic period?

The Neolithic period, often referred to as the "New Stone Age," is characterized by significant advancements in human culture, particularly the development of agriculture and the establishment of permanent settlements. One of the most notable artifacts associated with this period is pottery.

Pottery represents a major technological advancement as it allowed for the storage and cooking of food, which was essential for sustaining larger populations that emerged during the Neolithic. The creation of pottery demonstrates an increased understanding of materials and methods for crafting durable containers, which indicates societal advancements in technology and resource management.

In contrast, while chopper tools and Venus figures are important prehistoric artifacts, they are more closely aligned with earlier periods, such as the Paleolithic. Cave paintings, too, are predominantly associated with earlier hunter-gatherer societies, focusing on their experiences and environment before the agricultural shift of the Neolithic. Thus, pottery is uniquely tied to the social and economic transformations of the Neolithic period, making it the correct representation of artifacts from that era.