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Indonesian handprints are the oldest cave art found yet

Researchers have discovered what may be the oldest known cave art in the world: handprint stencils on cave walls in Sulawesi, Indonesia, dating back at least 67,800 years. These prints, created by blowing pigment over hands pressed against the rock, feature pointed fingertips and suggest a sophisticated artistic tradition. Scientists determined the age by analyzing mineral crusts that formed over the artwork, and the findings provide new insight into the origins of human creativity. The identity of the artists remains uncertain, but the discovery raises questions about which ancient human groups lived in the region and how artistic practices spread across early populations. Other, more recent drawings found nearby include depictions of animals and human figures, indicating a long history of artistic expression in the area. Researchers believe there may be even older art yet to be found in the region, offering further clues to humanity's creative beginnings.

Original article source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-15485155/Indonesian-handprints-oldest-cave-art-yet.html
Source Id: 2026-01-957046046

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