In 2021,an investigation conducted at the Laochigou site within Yongchang County,Gansu Province,uncovered 136 groups of petroglyphs,all chiseled into the tawny rock formations and distributed along the river valley and adjacent mountain slopes,adhering to the natural terrain.The petroglyphs exhibit a rich variety of subjects,primarily encompassing depictions of animals,human figures,and vehicles.The images are presented in the form of silhouettes and outlines,which are carved using the negative scribing method.Through a comprehensive analysis encompassing the themes,crafting methodologies,expressive forms,and comparable relics discovered in Yongchang County,we have categorized the Laochigou petroglyphs into three broad chronological periods:the early period dates back to the first millennium BCE,marked by the prevalence of vehicle petroglyphs;the intermediate period spans from the Spring and Autumn Period through the Warring States,Qin,and Han Dynasties,distinguished by depictions of Scythian-influenced deer and other motifs associated with the artistic styles of the northern grasslands;and the late period extends up from the mid-Tang Dynasty to the early Northern Song Dynasty,characterized by the appearance of Tibetan inscriptions.The Laochigou petroglyphs,with their unique artistic forms,serve as a testament to the ancient ancestors'daily lives and production activities.They also provide a fresh perspective for studying cultural exchanges and integrations in the region,thereby possessing significant historical and academic values.
Petroglyph in LaochigouVehiclesCamelsTibetan inscriptions
万方数据
维普
