From Epipalaeolithic petroglyphs to Roman graffiti: Stylistic variability of anthropomorphs at Gebel el Silsila (Upper Egypt)

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Abstract

Gebel el Silsila displays an astounding concentration of incised illustrations, of which anthropomorphic figures are frequent motifs. These figures were produced over several millennia: from prehistoric petroglyphs to pictorial graffiti of dynastic periods and throughout into Roman days. Spanning over six millennia visitors to Gebel el Silsila depicted huntsmen, warriors, boatmen, and horsemen, religious adoration scenes, apotropaic daemons, gods and human figures of varying iconographic complexity. These splendid commemorations range from minuscule, delicately carved figures to grand scenes, or rough and elusive hammered depictions. This paper aims to present stylistic, technical and chronological variability of anthropomorphic figures illustrated at Gebel el Silsila, including considerations of spatial distribution, archaeological context, and — if possible — an interpretation of their significance.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationWhat Ever Happened to the People? Humans and Anthropomorphs in the Rock Art of Northern Africa
Subtitle of host publicationinternational conference (Brussels, 17, 18 &​ 19 September 2015)
EditorsDirk Huyge, Francis van Noten
Place of PublicationBrussels
PublisherRoyal Academy for Overseas Sciences
Pages445-460
Number of pages16
ISBN (Print)9789075652604
Publication statusPublished - 2018

Subject classification (UKÄ)

  • Archaeology
  • Classical Archaeology and Ancient History

Free keywords

  • Gebel el Silsila
  • Archaeology
  • fieldwork
  • Rock Art
  • Prehistory
  • Graffiti
  • Egypt

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