2024 Archaeological Survey of the Rock Art in the Baicha River Basin, Hexigten Banner (Keshiketeng Qi), Inner Mongolia

Abstract

Beginning on June 24, 2024, a two-week systematic field survey has been carried out in the Baicha River Basin, led by the School of History and Culture of Chifeng University, in collaboration with the Hexigten Banner (Keshiketeng Qi) Museum, the Department of Archaeology & Museum Studies of Renmin University of China, and other participating institutions. The survey progresses north to south along the river basin, covering an area between 43°12′–42°59′ N and 118°09′–117°55′55″ E. A total of 16 rock art localities have been verified and documented, comprising 42 panels and 266 individual motifs. The rock art was executed mainly by pecking and grinding techniques, with additional examples of red pigment painting. The imagery is predominantly animal-themed (57%) with deer representing 63% of all animal figures. Anthropomorphic images account for 18%, accompanied by geometric motifs and mask-like human faces. Based on associated archaeological contexts, certain anthropomorphic face motifs may date back to 6,000–8,000 years BP, while the majority of animal figures are attributable to the Bronze Age. The systematic rock art data obtained through this survey provide an essential empirical foundation for integrated studies of rock art within the river basin, as well as for future conservation planning and heritage communication. These results also offer new perspectives for research and further underscore the significance of this region within the study of ancient cultures in northern China.