Page 542 - Proceedings Collega2023

Recent research on Mulyoharjo sculptures that feature characteristics and qualities primarily
seen in the exquisite carving embellishments (Adicandra et al,2022). Other elements include the
composition of Jepara sculptures, which are often symmetrical and have thin concave carvings. According
to Sugiyanto et al. (2023), there are also animal motifs, such as horse, which usually include motifs with
bird items as part of a supporting composition of plant motifs.

There are deposits of marine life shells found in the Niah Cave, Bone Lobang and the Niah Cave.
In interpreting them, Harrisson (1964) says that shell residues are only casual evidence and has nothing to
do with burial ceremonies. However, Kimwah & Sauffi (2023) and Kiyai@Keai & Tugang (2023) argue that
shell residues can be associated with funeral activities. This finding was reinforced by the discovery of
shells and snails used by prehistoric societies as jewelry. Ballard et al. (2004) also note the relationship
between shells and snails used in funeral ceremonies at the Tabon Gua Palawan site, in northern Borneo
in the southwestern Philippines.

Further observation techniques associated with bone-ornament production are presented
elsewhere. Holes drilled through the teeth of cloded leopard, civet cat and dog, as well as those seen in
the bead spacers are absolutely straight, with no evidence of bevelling or countersinking. Such perforation
morphology is generally indicative of the use of metal- tipped drills. Also worthy of note are four shark
vertebrae, one of which has a large, worn, central perforation and an abraded perimeter (Szabó et al,
2008).

Overall, past research has documented cave paintings in the Niah Cave, but there is a lack of
detailed research on the iconic and aesthetic aspects of the cave paintings. Therefore, this research
discusses the iconic zoomorphic images and aesthetic aspects in the field of visual arts and discovers each
of the resulting zoomorphic motives.

Research Methodology

Of these entire cave walls, researchers identified 10 images of animals. The physical
properties inherent in real objects are then compared with the recorded zoomorphic images.
The features that have been identified on the image determine the category of
zoomorphic images produced. The use of icons in zoomorphic images were noted.
The research was carried out in 2001. The group of researchers led by Barker et al. (2016)
subsequently resumed the research on 8 April 2002. The third research further strengthens the
evidence of the arrival of the prehistoric community to Kuala Lobang (West Mouth) before 43,
000 B.C. It also leads to an increase in evidence of the existence of a farming system since the
existence of modern society in Borneo.
In this research on cave paintings in the Niah Cave, several data collection methods have
been used by researchers. In addition to using the library method (analyzing documents) and the
website method, the research also uses interview methods, direct observation method and
participate. All these methods are used to obtain more detailed data and at the same time meet
the objectives that have been determined.
Observation methods require a variety of qualitative techniques including analytical and
expressive drawing, mapping and drawing diagrams against what is observed, video, photography; take
notes, calculate research materials, events, time events and aspects of movement; using checklists,
scheduling, determination scales, and so on. This is also coupled with various instruments to improve

International Conference on Local Wisdom of the Malay Archipelago (COLLEGA 2023) Page - 529 -