The Manunggul Jar is widely regarded as the most famous pottery in the Philippines. It is an exceptional archaeological find and a national treasure, symbolizing the rich precolonial artistry and spiritual beliefs of the ancient Filipinos.
The Significance of the Manunggul Jar
The Manunggul Jar is not just a piece of pottery; it is a profound cultural artifact. Discovered in the Manunggul Cave of Palawan in 1964, this secondary burial jar dates back to the Late Neolithic period, approximately 890–710 BCE. It is considered to be one of the finest Philippine precolonial artworks ever produced and a masterpiece of Philippine ceramics.
Key Aspects of its Fame:
- Exceptional Craftsmanship: The jar is intricately designed, showcasing the advanced pottery skills of ancient Filipinos. Its detailed workmanship and unique form set it apart.
- Symbolic Lid: The most striking feature is its cover, depicting two human figures in a boat, symbolizing the journey of the soul to the afterlife. The figures, believed to be boatmen or ancestors, are shown with a specific pose, reflecting ancient death rituals and beliefs in the soul's voyage.
- Historical and Cultural Value: It provides invaluable insights into the burial practices, spiritual beliefs, and seafaring traditions of the ancient inhabitants of the archipelago. It affirms the sophisticated maritime culture that existed long before Spanish colonization.
- National Treasure Status: Recognized for its immense cultural and historical importance, the Manunggul Jar is preserved at the National Museum of the Philippines in Manila, serving as a cornerstone of the country's precolonial heritage collection.
Characteristics of the Manunggul Jar
The Manunggul Jar is characterized by its distinct form and artistic elements.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Type | Secondary burial jar (used for reburial of bones after initial decomposition) |
| Material | Terracotta (earthenware) |
| Dimensions | Approximately 51.5 cm in height and 66.5 cm in diameter |
| Lid Design | Sculpted with two figures riding a boat: one figure paddling, the other with arms crossed, symbolizing a soul's journey to the afterlife. |
| Carvings | Elaborate curvilinear designs and geometric patterns etched into the body of the jar, indicative of ancient indigenous artistry. |
| Discovery Site | Manunggul Chamber, Tabon Cave Complex, Lipuun Point, Palawan |
| Dating | Late Neolithic Period (around 890–710 BCE) |
Beyond the Manunggul Jar: Other Notable Philippine Pottery
While the Manunggul Jar holds a unique place, Philippine pottery encompasses a wide range of styles and functions, reflecting the diverse cultural tapestry of the archipelago. Other notable examples include:
- Calatagan Pot: Discovered in Batangas, this pot is famous for its intricate syllabic script (Baybayin) inscribed around its rim, making it one of the few ancient artifacts with such writings.
- Pottery from Kalanay Cave: Found in Masbate, these earthenware vessels showcase various forms and decorations, indicating different regional pottery traditions.
- Burnay Jars of Vigan: These large, unglazed earthenware jars from Vigan, Ilocos Sur, are still produced today and are traditionally used for fermenting basi (sugarcane wine), bagoong (fish paste), and storing water or salt. The craft of burnay making is a living heritage.
These examples, alongside the unparalleled Manunggul Jar, collectively highlight the Philippines' rich tradition of pottery, which continues to evolve while honoring its ancient roots.
