Winged Bison Ancient Native American Figure Stones
ABOUT THE PROJECT
This collection of photographs, drawings and descriptions represents nearly 12 years of research. Over those years, many summer months were spent tent camping in the Alpine with my wife Kerri and our dog Ember. Most of the year was spent researching, studying and cataloging the stones. Sometimes staring at them for hours. Much to the dismay of my family and friends.
All evidence indicates that these Figure Stones are authentic and what remains of an Ancient Native American Culture.
This collection was discovered while collecting rocks for a small hot tub. At that time I had never heard of Portable Rock Art. In one particular place, I noticed that the rocks were concentrated and looked out of context in shape and composition. After studying a few examples, it seemed that one of the rocks looked similar to the profile of a Bison's head. Certainly it was a coincidence. Still, for the next two days, not knowing what they were, I collected stones that appeared to be "something". It seemed that several of them were similar and could be some sort of effigy. Although worn, it appeared that some had been intentionally altered. In addition to the "Bison" and "Bear", the "Shaman" were also recognized.
Through the winter, we researched and studied the stones. Many simple subjects were identified. There were some that had very good detail and several shapes were recurring. There was just enough evidence, spaced out like a trail of breadcrumbs, to warrant continued study.
For the next 2 years, we continued to study the stones. Sending emails and photos to anyone we could. With very little response. Sometimes showing my frustration. Not fully comprehending how unlikely this discovery would be. Still, the more research that was done, the more evidence there was that they were authentic. At times while studying the stones, I was awe struck. Not comprehending the techniques use to shape these artifacts. With each discovery, the ancient context was being revealed.
For the next 5 summers, we returned. At times, camping in the Alpine for months. The rest of the year was spent researching the stones and day dreaming about our summer home and the friends we made. As the years went by, the Subject list and Ancient context continued to grow and develop.
Because we were working alone, against the grain of conventionalism and under the high degree of skepticism afforded this type artifact, there were many times when I felt like giving up. And did "quit" for short periods of time. But it never really left my mind. The "voice" would get louder or the thought more persistent, what ever you prefer, until I'd finally go hold and look at some of the best examples. That always inspired me and remined me of my obligation.
Please consider, although a life-long active amateur, I am neither a Professional Archaeologist nor Geologist, but a Land Surveyor, doing what I can within my abilities and the ever changing context of this collection.
In no way do I claim that what we have called these stones are, in fact, what they might truly be. We had to make decisions on our own. For example, what to call some of the Subjects. Like the "Winged Bison" (219). We had never seen anything like it. Recently, what appears to be the true Subject of the "Winged Bison" was identified. It will be covered soon in the updated website.
Based only on the ancient Subjects depicted in some of the Figure Stones, the WB collection could be over 12,000 years old.
So far, approximately 450 of the artifacts have been photographed and cataloged. Many can be found in the Commentaries and in the Photo Gallery.
Nine Commentaries, outlining recurring Subjects, with photographs, drawings an descriptions are included in each commentary.
It is suggested that you read the Commentaries before viewing the Photo Gallery. They are short and not complicated. You will better appreciate this Ancient Culture and their Figure Stones.
The Photo Gallery contains over 800 photos. Some, with drawings and short descriptions of many of the Figure Stones and primitive tools.
ABOUT THE FIGURE STONES
These Figure Stones were discovered in the Alpine of the Colorado Rockies in a specific area near several mining prospect holes that were dug, in the late 1800's, to a "typical" depth of 70'-130'. It is proposed that these "artifacts" were brought to the surface, from an unknown depth, as a result of those operations.
Many apparent primitive stone tools have also been cataloged and are included in this publication.
You must first realized that the key to all of this is having the "collection". The apparent recurring and related examples are what substantiate the collection and determine each artifact's significance and credibility.
Most of the Figure Stones are composed of high silica igneous rock and lava. Ranging in color from bright yellow, orange, red, brown to black and white. Another recurring composition is a grey, high silica, granular material, similar to sandstone. There are a few quartz and other uniquely composed examples including those with crystalline structure and conglomerates. Some of the stones are of solid composition and color. Others are a fantastic combination of colors and textures. They range in size from less than 1" to those that are over 3', weighing 100's of pounds.
In some cases, it seems, a certain color stone was used to represent a certain animal. A Bison is often red. A cat, yellow, a bear, brown or black. Also, the more unusual the shape or mineral composition, the more likely it was to be a Figure Stone. The "Altar Stone" seems to warrant the most reverence and unusual compositions and array of Subjects.
Typically, sharp edges and fine details have been moderately to heavily worn. Most surfaces have developed a soft patina.
Based only on the apparent Ancient Subjects depicted in some of the Figure Stones, the WB collection could be over 12,000 years old.
Many of the examples are "one sided". Similar to relief sculptures, typically showing, in profile, only one side of the Subject. Others show multiple Subjects on multiple sides.
The first simple Subjects to emerge were the "Bison", "Bear" and the "Shaman". From these, more complex Subjects were identified. For example, the "Bison" allowed the discovery of the "Bear on Bison". That, like many of the Subjects, could have hardly been imagined. The "Shaman" allowed "Shaman with Headdress". The context, however unlikely, continues to gain in probability.
There are many different apparent animals represented in the collection. Bear, Bison, Wolf and others. There are also recurring examples of what seem to be, Ancient Animals. Such as the North American Lion, Woolly Mammoth, Pterosaur, and others. All of the ancient animals discovered so far can be verified to time and place. Except the Pterosaur. But by having a high degree of detail and recurrence in the collection, these stones tell a different story. Maybe a legend? Or fossil records?
Other recurring subjects, in the collection, reflect very powerful images. For example, the "Bear on Bison", where the Bear or Large Cat has a Bison by the back of the neck with his teeth. Typical of a large predator taking down large prey. For example a modern day Lion taking down a Zebra. The same technique is shown. Another is the "Roaring Mother Bear or Cat with Cubs" where there is, a Roaring Mother Bear with her Cubs surrounding her head and neck. Sometimes, they too are roaring. Each of those Subjects evoke strong emotions and symbolism.
Recurring Subjects like the "Shaman", "Altar Stone" and the "Fertility Stone", suggest these Figure Stones represent a part of this Ancient Culture's spiritual beliefs and rituals. And may indicate different aspects of their religious practices.
The nine Commentaries outline some of the higher recurring Subjects. Each Commentary includes nine examples with photographs, drawings and descriptions. A few of the examples are "Multi Subject Stones" and are also used in other Commentaries.
Exploring this art work and this Ancient Culture starts with reading the Commentaries.
But, if just want to see incredible works of Ancient Art, no matter the origin, then go to the Photo Gallery.
You will probably come back to the Commentaries.
Starting with the very obvious and simple, these artifacts range into the very complex. Hopefully these stones can be presented in a way that you will recognize the amazing subjects. Using only photography, no matter what is done, the subtle details and contours cannot be consistently reproduced. HR scanning of the more significant examples is being considered.
The Subjects were identified by observing the stones. Not the photography.
While photographing the Figure Stones, all effort was made to not let shadows, camera angle or lens distortion misrepresent or overemphasize the Subject outlined.
These Ancient Figure Stones were discovered on private property. They are not for sale.
Please read the Commentaries. They are short and not complicated. You will better appreciate this Ancient Culture and their Figure Stones.
It's not hard to imagine that these stones could emit a certain energy? Among other things, they command the reverence of a Great Tribal Elder. We are humbled in their presence. Containing a quiet knowledge of the ancient past. Not offering to give up their secrets but, with trust and effort, willing to do so.
We hope for those who try, that they can see what we do in these ancient works of art. Because it is a fantastic world of subjects and combination of things that continues to teach and amaze us.
Kerri and John
This collection and all efforts are dedicated to Kerri Lyn. Without her this would not have been possible.
