Ref ID:	37335
Ref Type:	Book Section
Authors:	Octavianus, Harry Simanjuntak, Truman
Title:	The rise of the Metal Age in Sumatra: Evidence from Harimau Cave in South Sumatra
Date:	2024
DOI:	http://doi.org/10.22459/TA56.2024.11
Abstract:	Sumatra is one of the largest islands in the Indonesian archipelago. Its location at the western edge of Indonesia makes it close to and, when sea-levels are low, frequently connected to the mainland of Southeast Asia. It is thus not surprising that human migrations and cultural diffusions from mainland Asia to Indonesia often passed through Sumatra first and then spread further into the archipelago. Such diffusions influenced the emergence of metal culture in Indonesia (in addition to other cultures such as pottery and agriculture). The archaeological finds at several sites in Sumatra reveal bronze artefacts in the Dong Son style of Vietnam. One of these sites is Harimau Cave in the southern part of Sumatra. Excavations in this cave recovered bronze and iron artefacts from the protohistoric occupation layer. The bronze artefacts are socketed axes and bracelets that date from between the fourth century BC and the first century AD. These are the oldest metal artefacts thus far found in Sumatra and Indonesia in general. Hence, the bronze artefacts from Harimau Cave may be an indication of the rise of the Metal Age on Sumatra, which coincides with the emergence of the international Maritime Silk Road.
Editors:	Louys, Julien Albers, Paul C. H. Van der Geer, Alexandra A. E.
Page Start:	234
Page End:	251