Chronology and function of Tangbaletasi cave paintings via hyperspectral and iconographic analyses

The Tangbaletasi Cave Paintings in the Altai region of Xinjiang comprise a diverse assemblage of images preserved on natural cave walls. This study integrates hyperspectral imaging, iconographic comparison, spatial context, and historical sources to investigate the chronology, composition, and potential functions of the paintings. The rock art dominated by anthropomorphic figures and geometric motifs can be broadly attributed to the Bronze Age. The overall spatial configuration of the cave suggests the presence of organized, non-domestic activities. When considered in conjunction with local historical records, the appearance of Tibetan Buddhist motifs indicates that the cave may have been reused or intermittently engaged with during the Yuan period. Overall, the Tangbaletasi Cave Paintings represent a multi-phase site, reflecting the coexistence and reuse of different visual traditions over time.