Pictograph of walking figures
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Pictograph of walking figures
Pictograph of walking human figures and cattle on a cave wall in the Acacus region of Libya, approximately 9, 000 years old. The scene is typical of many such images across the Sahara, where the husbandry of cattle reflected the savannah environment during the last wet phase in the Saharas climate. Most of the human figures lack any facial features and appear to have a mythological background and themes. The painting includes two or more styles, showing different degrees of skills perhaps meaning that the painting was the work of different generations, or by different artists from the same generation. Ochre was the main pigment used by early humans in rock art and body painting; and sites showing evidence of prehistoric ochre mining have been discovered in the Sahara
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6316815
© David Parker
Cattle Cave Dance Hunt Hunter Libya Ochre Painting Pictographic Ritual Rock Art Sahara Savannah Walking Acacus Frieze
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a remarkable pictograph of walking human figures and cattle on a cave wall in the Acacus region of Libya. Dating back approximately 9,000 years, this ancient artwork offers us a glimpse into the past and sheds light on the cultural practices of early humans. The scene depicted in this pictograph is representative of similar images found throughout the Sahara desert. It reflects an era when cattle husbandry thrived due to the wet phase in the Saharan climate, which transformed vast areas into savannah-like environments. Interestingly, most of the human figures lack facial features, suggesting a mythological background or theme associated with them. The painting itself exhibits multiple styles, indicating that it may have been created by different artists from either different generations or within one generation with varying degrees of skill. Early humans relied heavily on ochre as their primary pigment for rock art and body painting. In fact, evidence of prehistoric ochre mining sites has been discovered across the Sahara. This particular frieze demonstrates how our ancestors utilized ochre to create stunning works of art that still captivate us today. As we observe this image, we are transported back in time to witness scenes encompassing hunting rituals, animal interactions, and perhaps even celebratory dances. It serves as a testament to not only our shared history but also our innate creativity as beings capable of expressing ourselves through various forms such as rock art and painting.
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