picture writing

the art of recording events or expressing ideas by pictures, or pictorial symbols, as practiced by preliterate peoples.

pictorial symbols forming a record or communication.

Origin of picture writing

First recorded in 1735–45

On the outer surface of each tent was exhibited the biography of its owner—expressed in picture-writing.

The Wild Huntress |Mayne Reid
They corresponded with their kindred on the plains by picture-writing.

Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes |Sylvia Sunshine
In Egypt, and probably in Accadia, the hieroglyphic or picture-writing was the earliest mode of expressing ideas.

The Reign of the Manuscript |Perry Wayland Sinks
Only lately a book composed in picture-writing throughout, was printed for the Mikmak Indians of Newfoundland.

St. Nicholas Magazine for Boys and Girls, Vol. 8, May 1886, No. 7. |Various

Then the Doctor called for one of their scribes—that is, a man who did picture-writing.

The Voyages of Doctor Dolittle |Hugh Lofting

picture writing

any writing system that uses pictographs

a system of artistic expression and communication using pictures or symbolic figures