Humans

Depictions of human figures largely vary from simple crew lines to clearly detailed figures, such as the so-called bridal couple at Vitlycke.

The majority of the human figures on the rocks seem to be males and they are very often phallic. Female figures are few and can be recognized by their long hair (ponytail) and the female fertility sign, the cup mark, between the legs.

A proportion of human figures are placed in the so-called “adorant” pose, raising their arms as if in adoration for the gods or the sun.

Do we see images of Gods among them? Did the people from the Bronze Age honor personified Gods? There are many indications for it, such as the disproportionately large human figures with a body shaped as a cross-in-circle or sun symbol, found either standing alone or sometimes in groups, as part of a procession. But here also the interpretation is uncertain, as the large human figures could be priests or leaders of the society.

It seems that the development of humans’ religious representation changes from tribute to the deities toward the conception that priesthood can mediate these powers.

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