Appendix 2.

5
Archaeological Evidence Inventory

Archaeological Evidence Inventory

MANUNGGUL JAR

Site Information

Site Name: Site Code/ID: Manunggul Cave

Location (GPS Country/Region: National Museum of Anthropology in Manila, Philippines.

Coordinates: 14.5800° N, 120.9822° E.
(Latitude,
Longitude)

Discovery Details

Date of Discoverer(s):1964
Discovery:

Excavation Excavation Team Members: Dr. Robert B. Fox

Leader: Miguel Antonio

Context Stratigraphic Unit/Layer/Level: The Manunggul Jar was found in a specific

Information stratigraphic layer within the Manunggul Cave in the Philippines. This
stratigraphic unit is typically associated with the Late Neolithic to early Metal
Age, around 710 to 890 B.C. The jar was discovered in a burial context,
indicating its use in funerary practices.

Provenience Description of Evidence: Chamber A of the Manunggul Cave within the Tabon
(Exact Location Caves complex in Lipuun Point, Palawan, Philippines.
within Site):

Item Number: Type of Artifact/Fossil: Secondary Burial Jar

Condition: Material: The jar is made of earthenware, specifically clay with some sand soil.

Dimensions Color: The Manunggul Jar is approximately 50 cm (20 in) tall, with
(Length, Width, a diameter of 36 cm (14 in). Its weight is about 4 pounds.
Height, Weight)
The jar's color is primarily reddish-brown due to the use of hematite, a
mineral that produces a red coloring, in its decoration.

Function/Use: Decoration/Inscription: It features two figures carved in relief, representing

a journey to the afterlife.

 Boat Motif: The figures are depicted in a boat, which symbolizes the
journey of the soul after death. The boat is often depicted
with curvilinear scrolls, reminiscent of waves on the sea, signifying the
journey across the water to the afterlife.
 Figures: The figure in the front of the boat is believed to represent
the soul (kaluluwa), while the figure at the back is the boatman.
 Hematite: The designs on the lid are painted with hematite, a mineral
that produces a reddish-brown color. This color is thought to have
symbolic significance in ancient Filipino culture.

Dating Information

Estimated Dating Method(s) Used:

Date/Age: The Manunggul Jar is estimated to date back to around 710 - 890 B.C. The
dating methods used for the Manunggul Jar primarily include:

1. Radiocarbon Dating: This method measures the decay of carbon-14 in

organic materials found within or associated with the jar, providing an
estimate of its age.
2. Stratigraphic Analysis: By examining the layers of soil and artifacts
surrounding the jar in its archaeological context, researchers can infer
its relative age based on the sequence of deposits.
 3. Typological Dating: This involves comparing the jar's style and design
with other known artifacts from similar periods, helping to place it within
a chronological framework.
4. Pottery Analysis: The composition and firing techniques of the jar can
be analyzed to determine its age and the technological advancements
of the time.

Conservation Details

Conservation Recommended Conservation Actions:

Status:
1. Controlled Environment: Maintain stable temperature and humidity
levels to prevent deterioration. Ideally, keep it in a climate-controlled
display case.
2. Physical Support: Use custom supports to prevent stress on the jar,
especially if it has fragile areas or cracks.
3. Regular Monitoring: Conduct periodic assessments to check for signs
of deterioration, such as cracks, discoloration, or biological growth.
4. Cleaning Protocols: Implement gentle cleaning methods to remove
dust and debris, avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
5. Documentation: Keep detailed records of the jar's condition, any
conservation treatments applied, and its exhibition history.
6. Public Education: Develop educational programs to raise awareness
about the jar's significance and the importance of its conservation.
7. Emergency Preparedness: Establish a plan for emergency situations,
such as natural disasters, to ensure the jar's safety.
By following these conservation actions, the integrity and historical significance
of the Manunggul Jar can be preserved for future generations.

Photographic Documentation

Photo:

Appendix 2.5
Archaeological Evidence Inventory

Analysis
1 TYPE OF ARTIFACT

The Manunggul Jar is classified as a funerary artifact. Specifically, it is a burial jar used in
ancient Philippine burial practices.It is primarily made of pottery.

Description of Material:
 Pottery: The jar is crafted from clay that has been shaped and fired at high temperatures.
This process gives it durability and allows for intricate designs.
 Surface Treatment: The exterior is often decorated with intricate carvings and motifs,
showcasing the artistic skills of its creators. The surface may also exhibit a smooth finish,
which is typical of high-quality pottery.
 Functionality: As a burial vessel, the jar was designed to securely hold the remains of the
deceased, reflecting the funerary practices of ancient Filipino culture.

2 SPECIAL QUALITIES OF THE ARTIFACT

 Shape: The Manunggul Jar has a distinctive, elongated form with a rounded body
and a narrow neck. It often features a flared rim, giving it an elegant silhouette.
 Color: The jar typically exhibits earthy tones, such as reddish-brown or dark gray,
resulting from the firing process. The natural color of the clay enhances its aesthetic
appeal.
 Texture: The surface is generally smooth, with intricate carvings that add a tactile
quality. The carvings may depict human figures or motifs, contributing to its artistic
value.
 Size: The jar is relatively large, often measuring about 50 cm (20 inches) in height,
making it a prominent piece in burial contexts.
 Weight: Being made of pottery, it has a considerable weight, which varies based on
its thickness and size, but it is manageable for handling.
 Movable Parts: The jar does not have movable parts, as it is a solid piece designed
for burial.
 Decorative Features: The jar is adorned with elaborate carvings, including a lid that
often features anthropomorphic figures, symbolizing the journey of the soul. There are
no printed or written elements on it, as it is primarily a sculptural artifact.

3 USES OF THE ARTIFACT

A. What might it have been used for?

The Manunggul Jar was primarily used as a funerary vessel for the remains of the deceased,
reflecting the burial practices of ancient Filipinos. It symbolizes the journey of the soul to the
afterlife, with its intricate designs representing spiritual beliefs. Additionally, the jar may have
served as a status symbol, indicating the significance of the individual being buried. Overall, it
embodies the artistic and cultural expressions of early Filipino societies, highlighting their
craftsmanship and beliefs about death and the afterlife.

B. Who might have used it?

The Manunggul Jar was likely used by ancient Filipinos, specifically by individuals of
significance within their communities, such as tribal leaders, nobles, or respected members of
society. Its design suggests that it was reserved for important burials, reflecting the social
hierarchy and cultural practices of the time. Families or clans would have commissioned or
created such jars for their deceased loved ones, emphasizing the jar's role in funerary rituals
and the importance of honoring the dead in their culture.

C. Where might it have been used?

The Manunggul Jar was primarily used in burial sites across the Philippines, particularly in
caves and graveyards.

D. When might it have been used?

The Manunggul Jar is estimated to have been used during the late Neolithic to early Metal
Age, specifically around 710 to 890 B.C.

4 WHAT DOES THE ARTIFACT TELL US?

A. What does it tell us about technology of the time in which it was made and used?

The Manunggul Jar gives us important clues about the technology of its time. It shows that
people had advanced skills in making pottery, including shaping and decorating the jar. The
smooth surface and detailed designs reflect their artistic talent and the importance of art in
 burial practices. Using local clay shows they understood their materials well. Making such a
special jar suggests that their society was organized, with skilled workers, indicating a complex
community. Overall, the jar highlights the technological progress and cultural richness of ancient
Filipino societies during that time.

B. What does it tell us about the life and times of the people who made it and used it?

The Manunggul Jar gives us a glimpse into the lives of the people who made and used it. It
shows that they had a complex society with different social ranks, as the jar was likely used for
important individuals. The designs on the jar reflect their beliefs about death and the afterlife,
indicating that burial practices were very important to them. The skill needed to create the jar
shows they valued art and had talented craftsmen. Using local materials suggests they knew
how to work with what was available in their environment.

Appendix 2.5
Archaeological Evidence Inventory
C. Can you name a similar item today?

A similar item today would be a ceremonial urn used for holding ashes in modern cremation
practices. Like the Manunggul Jar, ceremonial urns often feature intricate designs and are used in
funerary rituals, reflecting cultural beliefs about death and remembrance. They serve a similar
purpose of honoring the deceased and preserving their memory.

5 BRING A SKETCH, A PHOTOGRAPH, OR THE ARTIFACT LISTED IN 4C ABOVE TO CLASS.

Prepared by:

ZAMBRANO, DIANA M.

BEED 4