From prehistory to the present day, a great many objects and symbols have demonstrated the way in which humankind has honoured the miracle of life. Throughout the continents, fecundity and fertility, which immortalise life, have given rise to the existence of cults dedicated to worshipping the forces of reproduction. Modelled, sculpted, painted or engraved, these idols, amulets, masks and other ceremonial objects constitute an overwhelmingly precious heritage. Contrary to many modern religions who use sex as the cause of all evils, primitive religions believed that there was a natural link between religion and sex. Both factors shaped the balance between body and spirit. A.P.