The Dancer on the Rock: record and analysis at Järrestad, Sweden

Abstract

The so-called Dansaren rock carving at Järrestad, southern Sweden, is one of the largest rock carving sites in that country. This paper presents a detailed description and re-analysis of the carvings, examining not only the images themselves but also their topographical location, groupings and position in relation to the available rock surface and possible viewpoints of the observer. The history of research at the site is described together with the methods used for recording. The motifs are described and discussed and it is noted that the various types of images, including footsoles, feet, horsemen, cupmarks, and boats occur in particular combinations and are distributed on the rock surface in such a manner that discrete panels are apparent, delineated by natural cracks in the rock which form an integral part of the design. The location and distribution of other monuments and rock carvings in the region are discussed and a social and symbolic context within the later Bronze Age presented for the Dancer and its associated carvings .