Portable art refers to the small examples of Prehistoric art that could be carried from place to place, which is especially characteristic of the Art of the Upper Palaeolithic. It is one of the two main categories of Prehistoric art, the other being the immobile Parietal art, effectively synonymous with rock art.

What is meant by parietal art?

In archeology, the term "Parietal art" (also referred to as "cave art") is used to denote any prehistoric art found on cave walls. It embraces all types of cave painting, all forms of engraved rock art, or other petroglyphs, as well as any relief sculpture carved on walls, floors or ceilings.

What are the characteristics of Mobiliary art?

The terms mobiliary/portable art refer to incised, engraved, perforated, carved, or painted remains found at Paleolithic sites from c. 40 to 10 kya. Their ability to be handled, manipulated, and transported is what in essence separates these artistic manifestations from rock and cave art.