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This rock art was painted between 8000 and 6000 years ago, in the Tassili n’Ajjer mountain range
It is located in one of the richest rock art regions in the world.

It’s notable for its depiction of a female figurine adorned with horns

The figure is a large, elaborately decorated woman. She appears to be in motion, possibly running
Her body is adorned with what appears to be ceremonial or ritualistic body paint or clothing, featuring intricate patterns and designs. Depicted with horns on her head.

The type of artistic style has characteristics from the ’round head period’ (1)
Prevalent in the region, and in the central Sahara. The style often emphasizes dynamic poses, and body decoration. Both for human and animal figures.

It is believed to culturally represent a goddess or a priestess
Indicating spiritual and social structure within the Sahara. Horns could symbolize a connection to the divine, power, or fertility. This artwork, and, others in the region. Provides valuable insights to the environment, and life change.

It is one of the most significant art pieces in the park
Offering viewpoints on possible rituals; their clothing, and, early religious beliefs in north Africa. The rock arts sophisticated technique and style show advanced skills for the time. Dating back to thousands and thousands of years. To where it was once a fertile region, with greater wildlife and human habitation.

There are efforts in the region to preserve the running horned woman, and others. To ensure they remain a source of cultural and historic knowledge. For future generations, and, years and years to come.

Citation: 1) Soukopova, Jitka (16 January 2013). Round Heads: The Earliest Rock Paintings in the Sahara. Cambridge Scholars Publishing. pp. 3, 19–24, 45–55, 105, 107. ISBN 9781443845793. OCLC 826685273.

Bibliography: Department of Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas & Authors: Department of Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas. (1 C.E., January 1). African Rock Art: Tassili-n-Ajjer (?8000 B.C.–?). The Met’s Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History. https://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/tass/hd_tass.htm