Intensity Values of Terrestrial Laser Scans Reveal Hidden Black Rock Art Pigment

Abstract

The intensity values of terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) can be used to reveal painted black rock art behind graffiti and moss. The effect was observed in Gumahon cave in Peñablanca, Philippines where previously unnoticed black pigment was exposed underneath moss, red and white painted graffiti, and etched name graffiti. The application of TLS intensity values for this purpose has not, to our knowledge, been previously reported. The significance of this finding is that archaeologists are provided a new method of detecting obfuscated rock art that can aid interpretation. The method can be applied in similar contexts as black painted rock art is common in limestone caves across Southeast Asia and Micronesia, but also ubiquitous globally.