A Study on the Construction of a Knowledge Graph of Helan Mountain Rock Art Based on Database Development

Abstract

Helan Mountain rock art, as a representative example of rock art in northern China, embodies abundant prehistoric cultural information. Its digital preservation and intelligent analysis are of great significance for tracing the origins of Chinese civilization. Addressing current issues in rock art research in China, such as data fragmentation, insufficient semantic linkage, and the lack of spatiotemporal evolutionary relationships, this study constructs a database of Helan Mountain rock art based on the international standard CIDOC Conceptual Reference Model (CIDOC CRM). On this basis, a knowledge graph of rock art is further developed. By establishing a standardized metadata framework for rock art, this study designs a data model comprising 17 core metadata elements across three categories: descriptive, geospatial, and administrative. Building upon the database, a semantic network is constructed that integrates multiple dimensions, including symbolic entities, cultural meanings, geographic locations, and production techniques. The knowledge graph is visualized using Neo4j, revealing the intrinsic relationships of Helan Mountain rock art in terms of spatial distribution, cultural characteristics, and thematic evolution. This research aims to provide a new digital analytical approach for rock art studies.