JOURNAL ARTICLE

Hand stencil with claw-like fingers is the world’s oldest known rock art.

  • Published In: New Scientist, 2026, v. 269, n. 3580. P. 13 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Woodford, James 3 of 3

Abstract

The article discusses the discovery of a nearly 68,000-year-old hand stencil in a cave in Sulawesi, Indonesia, which may represent the oldest known rock art. This stencil shows signs of modification, suggesting that the artist intentionally altered the fingers to resemble claws, indicating a level of creativity and abstract thinking not seen in earlier Neanderthal art. The findings imply that the creators of this art were likely modern humans, potentially ancestors of the first Australians, and highlight Sulawesi's significance as a key location in early human history and migration. The research underscores the artistic capabilities of early humans and their cultural expressions. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:New Scientist. 2026/01, Vol. 269, Issue 3580, p13
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Visual Arts
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:0262-4079
  • Accession Number:191154304
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