Journal of California and Great Basin Anthropology

In a recent issue, Backes (2004) presents an analysis of two pictographs sites in Kern County, California, using ultraviolet fluorescence photography. Two sites, CA-KER-735 and CA-KER-736, were thoroughly studied. Backes' innovative approach is a useful tool in pictograph site research. It has resulted in the identification of new elements that were previously invisible to the 'naked eye' or impossible to document through conventional photographic means. I applaud Backe's efforts. My comments here are aimed at clarifying several minor yet significant contextual, classificatory, and interpretive matters, rather than in disagreeing with his technical methods or results per se.