Main Characteristics of Oukaïmeden Rock Art (Morocco)

Abstract

The present paper deals with the study of Oukaïmeden rock-art. The methodology developed for it is thoroughly explained. A total number of 249 rock-art stations containing 1068 individual depictions have been examined under three levels of analysis: rock-art station, panel and individual depiction. Eight different categories of depictions have been individualized: anthropomorphs; zoomorphs; weapons: ethnographic elements; symbols; idols and modern depictions. According to our analysis, anthropomorphs evolved from naturalistic to schematic designs. The same evolution is visible in zoomorphic depictions. By means of engraving’s overlapping and typology we suggest a possible chronology for them, from Neolithic to Bronze Age with some exceptions that belong to historic times. Other categories of depictions as weapons, the so-called undetermined depictions or ethnographic motives are also comprehensively analysed. Pecking was the main carving technique used, followed by abrading, being fine incision used exceptionally. Eventually an interpretation of the meaning of art in the context of the Oukaïmeden landscape is offered.