Explorations of Variability in Australian Prehistoric Rock Engravings

This book sets out to increase the archaeological usefulness of rock art by exploring the degree of spatial variation within a particular corpus of Australian prehistoric rock engravings labelled the "Panaramitee style". Spatial variation within the Panaramitee is explored using correspondence analysis and cluster analysis of motif proportions between sites, coefficients of diversity and presence/absence of motifs. A master typology was established, and counts of motifs were made at sites across the continent. It was found that there was both inter- and intra-regional variation in terms of differing emphases on motifs within an overall restricted range across the continent. The comparative homogeneity and widespread distribution of the Panaramitee corresponded with the possible function of the art to cement social networks between widely dispersed groups. The use of nonfigurative motifs in symbolic systems also helps to explain the persistence of an overall pattern of similarity over a prolonged period of time.