But that is most likely exactly where the women and children would be found, deep in the back of the cave, safe from predators and other human enemies. Plus, the temperature in the back of the caves stays fairly constant year round, and that would be very important during winter months when hunting for fuel for fires would be difficult and dangerous. Also during winter months, they would not be out gathering berries and plants for sustenance, they would be huddled in their warm dens awaiting the arrival of spring, taking care of the children, making clothes from animal hides and educating them and telling stories of good times to keep their spirits up. They would be taking care of the family, decorating their homes and waiting for the men to come home from work, i.e. the hunt, just as any modern woman would be doing today................
For decades I have been reading reports on the discovery of cave paintings in various locations. I don’t remember ever reading about any evidence of daily living being found on the floors of caves near the paintings. I also seem to recall that several were found deep within the caves. Families could likely have found sufficient shelter and temperature stability far closer to the mouth of the cave. In addition, there would have been extensive soot staining of the ceilings of living areas, and perhaps even soot damage to the cave paintings. The problem of lighting far back in a cave is also an issue. I am sticking with my impressions. By all means do some research on just where in caves the more famous paintings were found.