A BASIS FOR ADVANCED STUDIES OF EARLY ART

A recent project of microscopic analysis of engravings on pebbles is d iscussed and its results are compared with those of other studies. Sim ilarities are noted with the methods of examining non-figurative cave markings in Australia. The advantages of intensive analytical study of early art are confirmed: it can lead to the reconstruction of graphic art production processes, raising the possibility of objective and te stable comparison with ethnographically accessible art production stra tegies.