Handbook of Rock Art Research - Tapa dura

A landmark in the development of ... knowledge [in studies of rock art].... An immense literature is covered. -- N. James * Antiquity * This 863-page tome presents a comprehensive discussion of rock art research worldwide through a compendium of 24 scholarly essays by as many eminent authorities... [T]he authors of this outstanding compilation present excellent discussions on style, classification, and structure and use various methods-such as semiotic approaches, ethnographic studies, and even neuropsychological approaches-to shine some scientific light on rock art in order to illuminate this difficult subject. -- F.G. Bock, (California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo) * CHOICE * Contributors to Whitley's handbook have demonstrated that rock art studies at the turn of the century are moving towards a more central position in archaeological research. David Whitley has succeeded in producing a volume which summarises the past and sets the state for future rock art research. It is sure to become a recommended student text and a frequently used reference source for practitioners. -- June Ross, (University of New England, Armidale) * Archaeology In Oceania, Vol 37.1, April 2002 * Rock art specialists and aficionados will want this book; others should take a look. -- Robert H. Bates, Harvard University * American Anthropologist, Vol 105.1, March 2003 * [O]ffers a diversity of readings for the heavyweight, the student, and the reasonably determined enthusiast. -- Sven Ouzman, National Museum, Republic of South Africa * American Antiquity, Vol. 68 No. 3 2003 * By publishing this book Whitley has challenged the rock art community and sought to promote and aid the acquisition of new knowledge. Whether this will be achieved depends on the response of that community to addressing the unresolved issues. -- Dr. Alan Watchman, (James Cook University) * Rock Art Research *

While there has always been a large public interest in ancient pictures painted or carved on stone, the archaeological study of rock art is in its infancy. But intensive amounts of research has revolutionized this field in the past decade. New methods of dating and analysis help to pinpoint the makers of these beautiful images, new interpretive models help us understand this art in relation to culture. Identification, conservation and management of rock art sites have become major issues in historical preservation worldwide. And the number of archaeologically attested sites has mushroomed. In this handbook, the leading researchers in the rock art area provide cogent, state-of-the-art summaries of the technical, interpretive, and regional advances in rock art research. The book offers a comprehensive, basic reference of current information on key topics over six continents for archaeologists, anthropologists, art historians, and rock art enthusiasts.