Rock Art Research

This paper outlines recent preliminary research conducted in relation to the Ngaut Ngaut (Devon Downs) petroglyphs. In particular, we reassess the original rock art sequence proposed for the site by Hale and Tindale and the manner in which their assertions and recordings have been used and interpreted by subsequent rock art researchers. We conclude that there are a number of potential issues with the rock art typology put forward by Hale and Tindale although we concur with some of their conclusions. We also outline where our interpretations of the rock art intersect or diverge from later syntheses. This research also identifies a number of errors that have been introduced into the literature — particularly in relation to the rock falls at the site and concomitant arguments about the excavated art and related art sequences. These issues have been outlined here to provide clarity for future researchers.