The spaces of art: the design of panel and the articulation of landscape in Galician rock art

Abstract

This paper analyses open air rock engravings both as resources to create space in panels and as mechanisms for landscape construction. A series of models are defined, both in panels and in panel groups, that structure the space of art. We also highlight the importance of placement as an essential element in the understanding of open air rock art. Through the study of panels, we have discovered that the motifs apparently referring to the male -weapons, riding scenes and stags— are placed at the top of panels. At a second level of analysis, the groups of engraved rocks, those motifs appear on rocks located at points which stand out in the landscape. Finally we find a third level of analysis, the so called Systems of Groups of Engraved Rocks, formed by groups of petroglyphs delimiting Bronze Age territories.