This is 11th article on my blog series about the Philippines and Filipino Americans in connection with the Filipino-American History Month Celebration here in the US.
The Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs, located in Rizal, Philippines, are considered the oldest known work of art in the country, dating back to the late Neolithic period, before 2000 BC. They are a series of 127 human and animal figures engraved on a rock wall in a shallow rock shelter, with 51 distinct types, suggesting that the engravings were done by many individuals.
The Significance of the Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs
The site's significance lies in its historical, cultural, and scientific value. The petroglyphs represent the oldest known rock art in the Philippines, showcasing a unique deep engraving technique. They provide valuable insights into the beliefs and practices of the people who created them, offering a glimpse into the prehistory of the Philippines.
The Discovery and Excavation
The Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs were discovered in March 1965 by National Artist Carlos "Botong" Francisco during a field trip with Boy Scouts. Archaeological excavations, led by Alfredo Evangelista, were conducted from October to November 1965, uncovering artifacts that confirmed the site's Neolithic age. These artifacts included fragmented earthenware, obsidian flakes, chert flakes, stone tools, and a polished stone adze.
Interpretation and Theories
The petroglyphs depict a variety of figures, including stylized human figures, frogs, lizards, and other designs that may have been eroded over time. The engravings are mostly symbolic representations, believed to be associated with healing and sympathetic magic. Researchers have argued that the figures were medicinal and religious in function, made by ancestors to transfer the sickness of a child onto the limestone wall, thus curing the child from ailments.
In 2018, Jalandoni and Taçon proposed that the petroglyphs consist of two different phases created by different cultures. The older Phase 1, believed to be created by Austrolo-Melanesian (Negrito) hunter-gatherers, is composed of geometric shapes, including vulva forms, small holes (cupules), and a human figure with bent elbows and knees. Phase 2, with sharper edges and lines, is believed to be much more recent and may have been carved by Austronesian hunter-gatherers, adding limbs, heads, and torsos to previous stick human figures.
Preservation and Management
The Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs have been declared a National Cultural Treasure by the Philippine government in 1973. They are also included in the World Inventory of Rock Art and are part of the Philippines' tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The site is managed by the National Museum of the Philippines, with support from the Department of Tourism, World Monuments Fund, American Express, and a Philippine real estate company.
Conclusion: A Window into the Past
The Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs are a testament to the artistic and cultural heritage of the Philippines. They offer a unique and valuable glimpse into the lives and beliefs of the people who lived in the region thousands of years ago. Their preservation and study are crucial for understanding the rich and complex history of the Philippines.
Meanwhile, THD did recognized Filipino-American History Month with the following poster in our Elevators. There is no plan to have a special Filipino Dinner. Instead Filipino snacks/appetizers is plan for next Friday Cocktail Hour.
Lastly:
Did you know that Filipinos are the second-largest immigrant group in the United States?
However, unlike many other ethnic communities, they don’t typically form distinct enclaves like Chinatown or Koreatown in cities across the U.S. Filipino immigrants tend to integrate into mainstream society, making them less visible compared to other groups.
No comments:
Post a Comment