Victoria AdolphusA groundbreaking study by the University of Helsinki has uncovered the unique acoustic properties of prehistoric rock art sites in Finland. The research reveals that the same vertical rock surfaces bearing ancient images of elks, humans, and boats also serve as effective sound reflectors, creating an immersive auditory experience.
The Discovery
The study, published in the journal Sound Studies, measured the acoustic impulse responses at 37 rock painting sites in Finland. The results showed that the smooth rock surfaces generate distinct single-repeat echoes, which accurately copy the given sounds. This phenomenon creates an auditory mirror image that appears to emanate from behind the rock walls.
A Special Sensory Environment
According to archaeologist Riitta Rainio, the prehistoric hunter-gatherers approaching the rock painting sites by water entered a special sensory environment where reality sounded doubled. The echoes were so strong that it is likely that the people in the past heard them.
Psychoacoustic Insights and Digital Enhancements
The researchers used impulse responses to make the acoustic characteristics of the rock painting sites perceptible to the public. They recorded vocal and instrumental improvisations at the University of Helsinki Music Research Laboratory and digitally added the acoustics of selected sites to them.
The Role of Sound Reflections in Rituals
Ethnomusicologist Julia Shpinitskaya believes that the study’s findings bring out one key feature of the sensory experiences associated with rock paintings by the water – that sound reflections strongly participated in the activities, making the cliffs energetic and active agents.
Conclusion
The study provides a fascinating glimpse into the auditory experiences of ancient cultures. The discovery of the unique acoustic properties of prehistoric rock art sites in Finland opens up new avenues for research into the role of sound in ancient rituals and cultures.
References
Rainio, R., Shpinitskaya, J., Rinkkala, P., Pekkanen, J., Kesäniemi, P., & Ojanen, M. (2024). Reflected encounters at hunter-gatherer rock art sites by the water. Sound Studies, DOI: 10.1080/20551940.2024.2419293
Image Credits
- Painted rock of Keltavuori in Southeastern Finland. Credit: Julia Shpinitskaya
- Custom-built raft used for summertime recordings. Credit: Julia Shpinitskaya
- Digital 3D reconstruction of the painted rock of Siliävuori in Southeastern Finland. Credit: Paavo Rinkkala & Jami Pekkanen
