Sketch in rock art of Minusinsk Depression: purposes and various usage ways

The author considers rock art images that can be categorized as sketch images. The category usually includes some partial images or petroglyphs, which initial outlines were altered in the course of presentation, yet, remained well enough visible. The partial images are particularly common in the earliest rock art. However, it is possible to assume various ways how a sketch could have been used in rock art of various periods in the Minusinsk Basin, as well as in other regions where carvings (petroglyphs) prevail. The author proposes a classification of sketches according to the assumed purposes. The sketch type almost repeating the contours of the intended pecked image is one of the most widespread, especially in later periods; the sketch represents an image distinct to some extent, which would be only finished by pecking. Most often, the initial outlines are engraved; the line fragments are clearly seen beyond the pecked contour. The second type of the sketch would rather represent a technical drawing of the future image, as it only indicates the proportions of the image by isolated dents. Usually, such images are designated partial or incomplete. The third type is a draft, almost reproducing the image in details, however, further processing, in contrast to the first type of sketch, implies not just following the ready contour by pecking but creating a whole image guided by the rare pecked contours. Andfinally, the fourth sketch type is related not so much to creating a single image outline, but to marking a whole composition. Mostly partial images fall into this category.