Australian and Indonesian scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery in the Indonesian Island of South Sulawesi, uncovering the oldest example of figurative cave art dated at least 51,200 years old.
The painting depicts a wild pig and three human-like figures, pushing back the timeline of modern humans’ capacity for creative thought.
Prof Maxime Aubert from Griffith University in Australia described the discovery as a game-changer, stating, “The painting tells a complex story. It is the oldest evidence we have for storytelling. It shows that humans at the time had the capacity to think in abstract terms.”
The artwork, found in the limestone cave of Leang Karampuang, showcases representational art, a significant evolution in human thought processes. The discovery challenges previous beliefs about human evolution, with Prof Chris Stringer of the Natural History Museum in London suggesting that similar examples may exist in Africa, where modern humans first evolved.
The new dating method used in the study may lead to reevaluation of cave art sites worldwide, potentially pushing back the emergence of representational art further. The finding highlights the importance of storytelling in human culture and art history, according to Prof Adam Brumm from Griffith University.
In related news, Lagos residents are calling for help as severe flooding has submerged homes and roads in White Sand Estate, Isheri-Osun, following heavy rainfall. “We’re at it again this year. Everywhere is filled with water,” said Johnson Olabode, Public Relations Officer of the estate’s CDC. Atinuke, a resident, lamented, “The rain has entered my house again. This is Whitesand Estate in Isheri-Osun.” John Adewale, another
