Ancient Rock Paintings discovered in Gansu estimated to be around 3000-4000 years old.
Local authorities in Gansu Province, northwest China, have confirmed the discovery of two ancient rock paintings estimated to be between 3,000 and 4,000 years old.
These paintings were located on a hillside along the eastern bank of the Yellow River, approximately two kilometers southeast of Yuwanquan Village in Pingchuan District, Baiyin City.
One of the rock paintings measures 2.4 meters in height and 3.9 meters in width, depicting six figures, including bighorn sheep, deer, and a hound in motion. The second painting, found five meters away, is 2.2 meters tall and 2.3 meters wide, featuring five images. While three figures have suffered damage due to weathering, the remaining two are intact. A particularly noteworthy depiction shows a man using a whip to herd a pot-bellied sheep, marking the first known instance of such an image in local rock art, according to researchers from Pingchuan’s cultural relics survey team.
Researcher Guo Mingchun expressed enthusiasm over the discovery, comparing it to receiving a precious gift from the past. Since the 1970s, multiple rock painting sites have been unearthed in Gansu, showcasing artistic techniques such as chiseling and grinding. According to Dunhuang studies researcher Gao Qi’an, these ancient paintings hold significant value for understanding the social life, history, and culture of early human societies.
Most rock paintings in Gansu are located in secluded mountainous areas or river valleys, which has helped preserve their original characteristics. However, their remote locations and constant exposure to natural elements pose challenges to their protection. To safeguard these relics, Gansu has established a digital image database for rock art. In 2023, the province successfully conducted high-precision data collection for 72 rock art sites.
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