Dots, lines, and Y symbols paired with animal figures across European cave art. Approximately 66% of animal figures across hundreds of European cave art sites are paired with symbols Dots and lines function as tally marks (called artificial memory systems or external memory systems) The Y symbol serves as a qualifier interacting with the animal figure and the associated number
Across hundreds of European cave art sites, about 66% of animal figures are paired with symbols. Researchers suggest dots and lines functioned as tally marks (an external memory system), while a Y-shaped symbol served as a qualifier modifying the animal and its number. This practice became more common from the Gravettian period onward across Europe.
Key Facts
- Approximately 66% of animal figures across hundreds of European cave art sites are paired with symbols
- Dots and lines function as tally marks (called artificial memory systems or external memory systems)
- The Y symbol serves as a qualifier interacting with the animal figure and the associated number
- Symbol use became more prevalent from the Gravettian period onward across Europe
Source: Ice Age Calendar System Maintained for 20k years by Timeless with Fred Snyder