Incised petroglyphs: Threading stone

This selection highlights petroglyphs delicately incised on rimrock. These images, often geometric or organic, are incised in thin lines on stone with a sharp tool, an edge of stone, possibly metal.  They are often near or in relationship with pecked or scraped petroglyphs, yet do not appear to be attempting to mark out other figures.  Rather, perhaps, to partake or extend the presence of the other markings, a form of participation in place.  All are located in the northwestern Great Basin.  (Click to enlarge)

The first, in Lake County, Oregon, web-like, insect-like.

In the group of below, Lassen County, NE California, lines are carefully incised inside an existing petroglyph circle. It is likely the pecked petroglyphs are older, perhaps a different cultural practice. Overall, the flow and combination is very unusual.

These final four, located at three distinct places in Malheur County, Oregon, illustrate some of the range of incisings on stone. 

The first comprises a complexity of incised markings layered and combined with older petroglyphs. 

The second photo, below, a close-up of the above, shows the precise detail of the tiny intentional and carefully incised compositions. In my imagination, the top left appears to be two eyes and a nose of a skull. The vertical and incised lines possibly the teeth. That day in driving, sleeting wind, with the blizzard on the way, invited a free-ranging imagination, while on the move. (Click to enlarge)

The third is an organic image: plant-like, leaf or root, perhaps, illustrating a range of intention and expression.

The fourth, a strong geometric, globular appearance; its meaning a mystery.  

Photos Douglas Beauchamp