Prehistoric Suns

 

Archaeoastronomy is a relatively new field of studywhich examines the astronomical knowledge of prehistoric peoples. These sophisticated sky-watchers cannily created observatories to help them understand the turning points in the year. Knowing when spring began, when to plant and harvest crops, and when winter was turning had an overwhelming significance in their lives.

Steve Mulligan has applied his large format camera skills to his most recent fifteen- year-long project in locating and photographing these prehistoric observatories in the American Southwest. During the various seasonal events of summer and winter solstice, equinox, and cross-quarters, he has captured these fantastic light displays on film and luminous silver prints.

Prehistoric Suns is an unusual combination of fine art and documentation. Requiring a balance of intuition and technique, it will appeal to both aficionados of fine art photography as well as to those enthralled by the beautiful rock art scattered across the Western states.

Prehistoric Suns is the eighth photography book of Steve Mulligan. He was a featured photographer at Epcot Center and an Associate Editor and columnist at Camera & Darkroom magazine. Outdoor Photographer magazine named him a “Master Landscape Photographer.” He lives with his family in Moab, Utah.


Ken Zoll is the Executive Director of the Verde Valley Archaeology Center. Ken is also the Regional Coordinator for the site steward program with the Arizona State Parks and Trails, and a volunteer docent at cultural heritage sites in the Coconino National Forest. He has conducted extensive fieldwork in ancient astronomical practices of the Southwest and is a certified instructor in ancient astronomy fieldwork. Ken is the author of several books on local ancient rock art and astronomical practices as well as several articles in professional journals on his studies.

Size: 12.5 x 12.5
Pages: 156
Plates: 103 Tri-tone plates
Linen Hardcover
ISBN: 978-1-934491-66-9
Price: $65
Contributors:
Natalie Cunningham