Final answer:
Blombos Cave in South Africa, dating between 70,000 to 100,000 years ago, contains evidence of early Homo sapiens' cognitive abilities and art forms including engraved ochre, which shows abstract patterns indicating symbolic art.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Blombos Cave, located at the southern tip of South Africa, is a significant archaeological site that has provided insights into the cognitive abilities of early Homo sapiens. Dated between 70,000 to 100,000 years ago, various discoveries within the cave include engraved bones, necklaces of marine shell beads, engraved ochre remains, and stone tools, which have collectively contributed to a paradigm shift in our understanding of human behavior and cognitive development in prehistoric times. The repetitive patterns found on the engraved ochre are particularly significant as they demonstrate the capacity for abstraction and production of symbolic art by early humans, linking directly to modern human behavior and complex cognitive development.