Rock Art Research

Research into the types and processes of rock weathering plays a key role in two areas in the field of rock art studies. First, it is crucial to issues of conservation and preservation. This paper focuses on the second area of interest in weathering phenomena, in providing
evidence supporting the efforts of estimating the age of rock art, most especially that of petroglyphs. In this area, weathering is arguably the most promising variable in the ‘direct dating’ methodology that has been developed in recent decades. The reasons for the failures of alternative dating methods are explored, leading to the proposition that weathering and related features offer the most reliable basis for future work in this field. Some of this new methodology is discussed within the overall context of the considerable difficulties generally experienced in rock art dating. Particular attention is given to the geometry of weathering, which is often most amenable to quantification, including that of the taphonomy of stone tools and rockshelters.