X-ray style art

X-ray style art, sometimes referred to as just X-ray style or X-ray art, is a prehistoric art form in which animals (and humans) are depicting by drawing or painting the skeletal frame and internal organs.^[1][2][3]

Example of x ray style art found in Aboriginal art in Australia

The style may date as far back as c. 8000 BC in the Mesolithic (rock) art of northern Europe.^[1][2] By c. 2000 BC it (apparently) spread to Africa, South Asia, and Australia^[4] where it is most commonly found today^[1][2][3][5] and specimens have been dated as early as 4600–3000 BC.^[6][7] However, it has also been found in hunting cultures of (Northern spain), Siberia, the Arctic Circle, North America, western New Guinea, New Ireland, India, and Malaysia.^[1][2]

The most common subject of X-ray style art is fish (due to its importance in the diet of Aboriginal Australians);^[5][8] however, it also includes many other animals, humans, and mythical creatures,^[5] including figures as long as 8 feet (2.5 metres).^[1][2]