Archaeology Terms
Pictographs and Petroglyphs
Art on non-portable rock can be found in open-air locations (cliff faces, outcrops, or any exposed rock) or in caves or shelters. Pictographs are designs painted or drawn on rock (charcoal or pigment). Petroglyphs are designs carved or pecked into rock. Pictograph (left) and petroglyph (right) are from Samuel’s Cave located in La Crosse County, Wisconsin.