Scientists recently discovered that Leang Karampuang cave paintings in Sulawesi, Indonesia are the world’s oldest cave painting, dating back to at least 51,200 years.
About Leang Karampuang Cave:
- A painting dated at least 51,200 years old was found in the ceiling of Leang Karampuang limestone cave in Sulawesi, Indonesia.
- Scientists used a new method involving laser-dating of calcium carbonate to determine its age.
- This technique was used to date Leang Bulu’ Sipong 4 cave (Indonesia) narrating therianthropes (part-human, part-animal beings) hunting warty pigs and dwarf buffalo.
- The painting depicts three human-like figures interacting with a wild pig in dark red pigment.
- The scene is dominated by a representation of a pig measuring 36 inches by 15 inches (92 cm by 38 cm) that is standing upright.
- Researchers interpret the scene as the oldest-known evidence of storytelling through art.
- Similar narrative scenes in other Sulawesi caves suggest early human capacity for storytelling.
- The figures’ deliberate positioning and interaction suggest a deliberate narrative.
- The painting predates Europe’s oldest-known cave art, ahand stencil painting from Spain’s Maltravieso cave believed to be dated to around 64,000 years ago by Neanderthals.
- Other scientists have disputed the age of the painting and have argued that it was created by Homo sapiens.
- It raises questions about the migration and cultural practices of early Homo sapiens in Southeast Asia.
Ref: Source
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Frequently Asked Question (FAQs):
Where is the Leang Karampuang cave located?
It is located on the Indonesian island of Sulawesi.
How old is the cave painting found in Leang Karampuang? \
The cave painting is at least 51,200 years old, making it the world’s oldest-known confidently dated cave art.
What does the cave painting depict?
It depicts three human-like figures interacting with a wild pig.