Beyond the Pigments: Exploring the Stylistic Diversity of Petroglyphs in Thailand

Thippawan Wongadsapaiboon

While Thailand is widely recognized for its abundance of rock paintings, petroglyphs (rock engravings) remain relatively underrepresented in Southeast Asian archaeological studies. Nevertheless, over 34 petroglyph sites across the country exhibit remarkable morphological and stylistic complexity. This paper addresses this research gap by providing a comprehensive analysis of the stylistic diversity of Thai petroglyphs. The primary objective is to categorize variations in techniques (e.g., pecking, scratching, abrading), motifs (e.g., geometric, zoomorphic, anthropomorphic), and spatial distribution across different regions. Preliminary findings reveal significant regional divergence in petroglyph traditions. Northeastern sites frequently feature geometric patterns related to rock carvings in Phitsanulok province. This is likely associated with cultural exchange routes through the Phetchabun mountain passes, connecting the Central Plains and the Northeast. Conversely, the Northern region features a single known site with a unique characteristic: engravings on a laterite outcrop. Additionally, pecked rock art discovered on the Mekong River bank is stylistically similar to petroglyphs on the opposite bank in the Lao PDR. This stylistic variability suggests these sites were created by distinct cultural groups or across varying chronological periods. In conclusion, the stylistic diversity of Thai petroglyphs is not merely decorative; it serves as a crucial indicator of group identity, cultural interaction, and ritual landscapes during prehistoric periods. Understanding this diversity provides a vital missing piece regarding human occupation and social organization in mainland Southeast Asia.