How old is the Sulawesi cave art?
The hand stencil is at least 67,800 years old.
Yanuki
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Science / Archeology
Sulawesi Cave Art: Oldest Hand Painting Discovered
A groundbreaking discovery in Sulawesi, Indonesia, has revealed what is believed to be the oldest known cave art: a hand stencil dating back at least 67,800 years. This finding redefines our understanding of early human artistic expression...
Key Insights
- A hand stencil discovered in Liang Metanduno cave on Muna Island, Sulawesi, Indonesia, has been dated to at least 67,800 years old, making it the oldest known cave art.
- The stencil features a reddish handprint that appears to have been intentionally modified, showcasing early artistic techniques.
- This discovery supports the theory that early humans migrated through Wallacea, bringing sophisticated artistic culture with them.
- The previous record holder for the oldest cave art was a 66,700-year-old red hand stencil in Maltravieso cave in Spain, attributed to Neanderthals.
In-Depth Analysis
The dating of the Sulawesi cave art was conducted using laser-ablation U-series (LA-U-series) dating of calcite overlying the hand stencil. This method provides a minimum-age constraint for the underlying motif. The hand stencil is located inside the Liang Metanduno limestone cave on Muna, an island off of Sulawesi.
The pointed shape of the finer tips suggests that the work was the outline of a human hand. Researchers believe that the original artist would have poured pigment onto a hand before pressing it against the rock.
This finding challenges the previously held belief that cave art of this age was solely a European phenomenon, as the oldest cave art was found in Spain. It reinforces the idea that early humans in Southeast Asia were capable of complex symbolic thought and artistic expression. The Sulawesi discovery supports the view that the initial peopling of the Sahul landmass involved maritime journeys through northern Wallacea.
FAQ
Where was the cave art discovered?
The art was found in Liang Metanduno cave on Muna Island, Sulawesi, Indonesia.
What is the significance of this discovery?
It is the oldest known cave art and provides insights into early human artistic expression and migration patterns.
How was the age of the cave art determined?
Laser-ablation U-series dating of calcite overlying the hand stencil was used to determine its age.
Takeaways
- The discovery of 67,800-year-old cave art in Sulawesi, Indonesia, highlights the advanced artistic abilities of early humans.
- This finding challenges previous assumptions about the origins and spread of cave art.
- The Sulawesi cave art supports the theory that early humans migrated through Wallacea, bringing their culture with them.
- This discovery is an intimate window into the past, revealing the thoughts and lives of people from almost 70,000 years ago.
Discussion
Do you think this discovery will change our understanding of early human history? Share this with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
Sources
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