Ancient rock carvings

Ancient rock carvings

In the winter of 1993, a large number of ancient rock carvings were discovered in the Hustai Gully of the Dongcaochang area in Gongnaisi Township, Hejing County. Analysis by the Cultural Relics Management Office of the Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture determined that these carvings date back at least 5,000 years.

These carvings are mainly found on the iron-brown, sun-facing surfaces of massive boulders in Wutante, Modun, Ayoute, and Mangtuo Hai A’men. Among these, Wutante has the highest concentration and the largest quantity. The petroglyphs remain vividly etched on the rocks and are not only abundant in number but also rich in content — a rarity across various regions. The carvings predominantly depict wild goats and hunting scenes. The wild goats are shown in various poses. Hunters are portrayed in different actions: some are trying to corner the prey barehanded; others are drawing bows to shoot goats or wolves, including instances of two hunters shooting simultaneously; some are catching goats or wolves without weapons; some have just shot their prey and are standing on one leg with arms raised in joyful dance after putting down their bows; some are shown with their weapons still on their backs while being bitten on the arm by a wolf; and there are also depictions of deer and other unidentifiable line symbols. Particularly intriguing is a scene where over ten wolves surround a single wild goat — one wolf has its jaws clamped on the goat’s throat, while two others have bitten its hind legs. All the patterns are composed of single lines, featuring ingenious composition, simple yet powerful strokes, and a vivid, lively portrayal of both humans and animals.