Rock Art & Ritual Mindscapes of Prehistory

by Smith, Brian A.; Walker, Alan A.

• ISBN13: 9781445601885
• ISBN10: 1445601885
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2011-04-15
• Publisher: Amberley Publishing

Summary

A new interpretation of Neolithic and Early Bronze Age rock art.The follow-up volume to Rock Art & Ritual: Interpreting the Prehistoric Landscapes of the North York Moors, the authors continue their research into British Neolithic rock art and interpret the symbology of these carved stones. This volume takes the study onto a national scale, and helps explain the importance of the sun and water to Neolithic man. Without these, life would not exist, and the carvings on ancient rocks are often man's attempts to come to terms with his being and his place within the universe. Many stones have obvious astronomical uses and many throughout Britain possess similar styles and markings.Within Rock Art & Ritual, the reader will encounter information in both written and graphic form, as well as be given an understanding of Neolithic and Early Bronze Age man's relationship with sun and water. In depth studies are made of the stones of Northern England as well as with prehistoric monuments in Cornwall.

Author Biography

Brian A. Smith is an independent archaeologist, based in Yorkshire. Antiquity magazine stated that the authors have 'produced a stimulating book, which is more ambitious in its interpretations than many recent rock art publications.'Alan A. Walker is an independent archaeologist, based in Yorkshire. Antiquity magazine stated that the authors have 'produced a stimulating book, which is more ambitious in its interpretations than many recent rock art publications.'