Petroglyphs are basically rock art; images carved or drawn onto rocks or cave walls, usually during prehistoric times. I’ve been to several petroglyph sites over the years, spread across Europe and North America, including several in Hawaii and the Caribbean.
One of the most impressive, and certainly the most extensive, collection of petroglyphs I’ve seen so far is at the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site in New Mexico, between Tularosa and Carrizozo. Across this 50 acre expanse of desert literally thousands of petroglyphs are preserved.
In 2012, we spent a wonderful couple of hours hiking around a small ridge within the area protected by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management. The hillsides are strewn with rocks and boulders, most of which are covered with petroglyphs.
The artwork at Three Rivers belongs to the Jornada Mogollon people. The drawings were created over a 400-500 year period, between 900 and 1400 AD.
The harsh desert conditions coat any exposed rocks with a dark-coloured ‘patina’, which the artists scraped off to produce lighter-coloured designs.
Many of the carvings are geometric patterns, some of which are quite intricate.
In addition, there are over 21,000 petroglyphs (yes, that should say twenty-one thousand!) depicting insects, plants, fish…
…Birds…
…Mammals…
…And even humans.
But this was my favourite:
This post was inspired by the photo themes Symbol from Jen (Daily Post), Pattern from Paula (Lost in Translation) and, of course, Jo’s Monday Walk.
If like me, you’re captivated by the beauty and mystery of petroglyphs like these, why not sign up and follow my continuing Journeys here at Jaspa’s Journal (on WordPress or Bloglovin’), or through my website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Tumblr?
And if that’s not enough for you, the first three Jaspa’s Journey novels will soon be available to enjoy, both as ebooks and in paperback! Perfect for Kids 8 – 80!
What a great entry for Paula’s Pattern, Jaspa! I appreciate you including me in there too. A happy weekend to you 🙂
Thanks, Jo! Have a great weekend, too!
Pingback: Photo Challenge; Symbol | tnkerr-Writing Prompts and Practice
A fascinating place – petroglyphs are an incredible personal link to the ancient people who created them … and there was even a giraffe! Wonderful post.
To be honest, I think the giraffe may be just wishful thinking on my part, Peggy!
Aww – we can pretend 😀
I would love to explore the site too, but it will have to do with your wonderful share. Thank you, Jaspa. Really fascinating!
Glad you enjoyed it, Paula!
Pingback: Thursday’s Special: Pattern | Lost in Translation
Pingback: Jo’s Monday walk : Lealholm to Glaisdale | restlessjo
Pingback: Old Volcano | litadoolan
This ancient graffiti is so interesting. I doubt anyone will be wanting to study our current tagging practice!
I agree, Violet!
Pingback: birth |100 Emotions (a sketching challenge) | Ramisa the Authoress