Urubici Rock Art Project

The Urubici Rock Art Project aimed to document pre-Columbian petroglyphs located in the Avencal 1 site (Sao Jaoquim National Park, Santa Catarina state, Brazil) using Polynomial Texture Mapping (PTM). In the associated article we evaluate the application of PTM in terms of information gain over traditional techniques. Avencal is one of the most recognized petroglyph sites in the southern Brazilian highlands. This study is the first detailed analysis of the site since it was recorded five decades ago. The record produced with PTM is more complete in comparison to preceding sketches. Furthermore, its utility as a prospection tool is underscored by revealing the existence of multiple eroded motifs for the first time. The site is one of the largest of several open-air petroglyph sites located within the Canoas watershed. The project was carried out by Rafael Corteletti and Philip Riris, with logistical support from the national park service of Sao Joaquim, as well as with some additional equipment lent by Marcelo Sabia and Carolina Medeiros. Some hypothesized sequences of production for specific panels and multiple techniques of engraving used at Avencal 1 are also discussed. Following our study, it is clear that PTM has applications for both analysis and conservation of pre-Columbian rock art.