Discovery of Ancient Aboriginal Pottery in Far North Queensland
Discovery of Ancient Aboriginal Pottery in Far North Queensland
A Groundbreaking Exploration of Indigenous Technological Advancement
Anthropologists at the Université de Montréal and the University of Genoa have unearthed a significant archaeological find on Jiigurru (Lizard Island) off the Cape York Peninsula. The discovery challenges existing perceptions of Aboriginal technological capabilities, shedding new light on ancient Indigenous cultures.
The research, published in Quaternary Science Reviews1, describes the discovery of nearly 100 pottery fragments, some dating back up to 3,000 years. This unprecedented find suggests a rich pottery tradition among Aboriginal peoples predating European contact. Initially met with skepticism, the discovery underscores the need to reevaluate assumptions about Aboriginal technological innovation and cultural practices.
The search for ancient pottery was driven by the historical presence and influence of the Lapita, a seafaring group that traversed the waters north of Australia. Their archaeological record, characterized by distinctive pottery styles and cultural artifacts, prompted researchers to explore potential interactions with Indigenous Australians along the Queensland coast. The discovery of pottery fragments on Jiigurru hints at cross-cultural exchanges and trade networks between the Lapita and Indigenous communities, reshaping our understanding of prehistoric connections in the region.
The journey to uncover these artifacts began with a serendipitous find by New Zealand archaeologist Matthew Felgate during a coastal walk on Lizard Island in 2006. Subsequent excavation efforts led by Australian researchers, in collaboration with traditional owners, yielded remarkable discoveries, including pottery fragments and evidence of ancient habitation. The meticulous excavation process involved digging within ancient middens—piles of shells, charcoal, and other artifacts—to uncover ceramic fragments that could be dated and analyzed.
Distinctive characteristics and local materials distinguish the pottery fragments found on Jiigurru from those attributed to the Lapita culture. Oral histories from local Indigenous communities corroborate accounts of pottery production and trading traditions, further supporting the cultural significance of the discovery. However, debate arises over the necessity of pottery given the availability of natural alternatives such as shells for storing and cooking.
Despite these questions, the discovery underscores the need for continued exploration and excavation to uncover more insights into Indigenous technological advancements and cultural practices. Both Indigenous and non-Indigenous researchers are eager to delve deeper into the archaeological mysteries of the region, hoping to unveil more clues about the rich history of ancient Aboriginal societies in Far North Queensland.
Ulm, S., McNiven, I. J., Summerhayes, G. R., Wu, P.-H., Bunbury, M. M. E., Petchey, F., Hua, Q., Skelly, R., Lambrides, A. B. J., Rowe, C., Lowe, K. M., Reepmeyer, C. H., Maclaurin, C., Woo, K. G. P., Harris, M., Morgan, S. B., Turner-Kose, K. L., Slater, S. A., Connelly, J. D., … Cobus, B. (2024). Early Aboriginal pottery production and offshore island occupation on Jiigurru (Lizard Island group), Great Barrier Reef, Australia. Quaternary Science Reviews, 108624, 108624. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.quascirev.2024.108624