The animal as symbol in art?

In Egypt, many deities were part animal and part human. They appear to be exploring the links between the power of animals, the power of humans, and religion. That seems like an easy one to answer, but the ancient art will be harder because it is pure speculation. The animals on the walls of the cave may have been about reliving hunts, preparation for hunts, or for purposes of religious celebrations. There, one can never be sure they are trying to master power over the animal/s or acknowledging that the animals have power over the humans. Or, just copying what they see.