Journal of California and Great Basin Anthropology

Cupule petroglyphs have been recorded throughout the world, and it is possible that they represent the oldest known form of rock art. Such petroglyphs are especially numerous in California, where examples are found in most areas of the state (Heizer 1953a; Payen 1968; Fleshman 1975; Minor 1975; Hedges 1981; True and Baumhoff 1981). One area of the state, central Cahfornia's Diablo Range, appears to be characterized by a relatively great number of cupule petroglyph sites. A recent archaeological study conducted in the northern portion of the Diablo Range resulted in the recording of additional petroglyph sites, and generated new ideas about the function of the petroglyphs.