Primates have better voluntary control over their hands than over their sound production. Therefore it is discussed, if gestural communication represents the starting point of human language evolution. For proofing how flexible non-verbal communication is, we analyzed usage and function of mimic and gestural signal patterns of Barbary macaques, Macaca sylvanus. The analysis is based on 180h of focal observation of 12 adult animals (6 males, 6 females) in “La Fôret des Singes” in Rocamadour. (I) Does the sender take the attention al state of the recipient into account? A preliminary analysis showed, that animals used acoustical and tactile patterns more often if the recipient was turned away. (II) Which functions do various gestures have, i.e. to which reaction of the acceptor do they lead? In 221 sequences 8 significant progressions were found, mostly decreases or increases of the distance. (III) Are different patterns used in different combinations? There were 19 different combinations out of 13 different patterns. Most patterns were combined with three to four others resulting in clusters of typical pattern combinations. None of the gestures was iconic, symbolic or referential. Most patterns have to be seen as intentional movements that are used in a relatively predictable manner in typical combinations. The fundamental function of nonverbal signals in Barbary macaques is to regulate the distance and rank relationships between individuals.