Tracing the carvers - A geological view on Bronze Age rock art. Carina Liebl.

Abstract

Swedish Bronze Age rock art is an important cultural heritage that offers a unique window into past society. For decades research on these carvings has mainly focused on archaeological interpretations. Here we add a geological perspective, highlighting the expertise required to carve motifs into Bohus granite. It shows that the makers made conscious choices about where to place the art, selecting rock surfaces connected with structural features in the rock. This perspective not only deepens our understanding of how the carvings were created, but also of the knowledge and skill involved in their production.

Preservation of this cultural heritage faces many challenges. Weathering, environmental change, and human impact are a constant threat to the long-term survival of the carvings. Monitoring sites and documentation in all possible formats are therefore essential ways to try and preserve the knowledge it holds for future generations.