This engraving shows a gazelle lying calmly, its slender limbs, refined head, and natural proportions rendered with precise, controlled lines. The stillness of the pose suggests careful observation rather than movement, capturing both the elegance of the animal and the prehistoric artist’s attention to detail. Gazelles were common in Saharan rock art, reflecting a time when the region had open grasslands and abundant wildlife, and highlighting the close relationship between humans and fauna in the prehistoric Sahara.

The image of the gazelle on the 1000 DA banknote demonstrates its continued cultural significance. Beyond its archaeological and artistic value, it has become a symbol of Algerian heritage and identity, linking the prehistoric landscape and its wildlife to the modern nation and its sense of continuity with the past.

This engraving shows the head of a large horned animal, possibly cattle or buffalo, with strongly emphasized horns giving it a powerful presence. The focus on the head highlights the animal’s most expressive and symbolic features.

Bovines were central to Saharan pastoral societies, representing wealth, status, and social identity. This depiction transforms the animal into a symbol, reflecting the close relationship between humans and domesticated fauna in prehistoric Sahara.