I'd prefer to say not "most effective", but "most reliable". And that would be without a doubt 14C dating. After all, there is a Nobel prize awarded for the technique (to Libby in 1960). I am especially leery of XRF with non-homogeneous layered samples, because there is no way to control or really predict how deep the X-rays will penetrate, and therefore what will be detected.

It's difficult to say surely but are there any chances of using TL or OSL dating for above?

.

I agree with Julius. If applied thoroughly, C-14 is the only of the above mentioned methods that needs no further assumptions and leads to quantifiable results. Albeit it can only be applied when suitable samples can be obtained.

@Julious and Erik are there chances that the art or front surface of rock or painting contains some organic part in color etc so that c14 is available for dating?

@Munish At least a part of rock art is made from charcoal.

@Erik-Thanks

Currently I am working with the "Welsh Rock Art Society" on Mesolithic Rock Art - no Charcoal or Carbon - anybody have a clue to what dating is best in this particular circumstance ?

Paul,

There are a number of techniques that you might try.  Subject matter, patination, superimposition, seriation of stylistic elements, single component archaeological site associations.  Many more as well.

Best,

alan

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For the dating of rock art one can apply different methods but for the moment none can give an accurate date as the radiocarbon one. Another confusing problem is that on the same rock usually exist signs of different periods.

Yes it is rather apparent that favored elements and powerful symbols and refreshed or re-energized by repacking...  One can often tell from a close examination of a panel.