Scotland: Amateur archaeologist finds ‘phenomenal’ trove of rock engravings

A ‘cup mark’ – a central depression with rings and grooves – discovered by Currie in central Perthshire. Photograph: George Currie

 
Scottish enthusiast George Currie’s prehistoric carvings to be included in ‘exciting’ research project 

An amateur archaeologist has tracked down hundreds of prehistoric rock engravings in Scotland in what has been described as a “phenomenal” contribution to the understanding of Britain’s earliest artworks.

Walking in all weathers once or twice a week, George Currie, 66, a musician by trade, has located more than 670 Neolithic and Bronze Age carvings over the past 15 years. He told the Observer: “It was ridiculous … I got tired of recording the stuff. I’ve never come across quite so much.”

There are many more to be found, he believes. Describing the thrill of uncovering ancient artworks that no one has seen for thousands of years, he said: “It’s quite a privilege.” [...] The Guardian