Gods and Animals in Disguise. An analysis of Rock Art and iconography in Southwestern Norway

Abstract

From Rock Art to figurines, the Nordic Bronze Age (NBA) is rich in iconography and symbolism. It produced some of the most magnificent works of prehistoric art, such as the Trundholm Sun Chariot, the bronze lurs and the Fårdal figurines. Along with many others, these artworks provide important insight into Bronze Age cosmology, ritual and religion. Focusing specifically on the petroglyphs of Southwestern Norway, we argue that Rock Art and iconography played an important constitutive role in creating, maintaining, and transforming beliefs that would have been abstract and disembodied otherwise. Furthermore, we stress the importance of Rock Art in exploring hybrid identities. By combining elements from the worlds of animals, spirits and humans, Rock Art allowed for the perception of realities normally hidden from view.