Distribution, petrographic analysis, and preliminary source identification of Hindu-Buddhist artifacts in Karangsambung-Karangbolong National Geopark and surrounding areas, Kebumen, Central Java, Indonesia

Abstract

Hindu-Buddhist artifacts (e.g., linga, yoni, statues, and craft objects such as pottery) were discovered in Karangsambung-Karangbolong National Geopark (KKNG) and surrounding areas, Kebumen, Central Java, Indonesia. The information related to the distribution, composition, and source of the Hindu-Buddhist artifacts is essential to support the development and management of the KKNG, particularly on the relation of lithology units with cultural diversity. A geological field survey was conducted to produce a distribution map of the artifacts, then overlaid with the geological map of Banyumas and Kebumen sheets scale of 1:100,000. Totally of 10 Hindu-Buddhist artifacts were distributed in the research area, grouped into 3 areas, namely Karangbolong Hills, Kebumen, and southern Kebumen areas. Furthermore, 10 samples of artifacts were collected and petrographically analyzed to acquire their compositions and to determine their source identification. Based on their distribution and petrographical analyses, the artifacts were made of andesite (linga of Tugu, linga, and yoni of Sumberadi, tomb of Trasidi, Celeng Stone, yoni of Rowo), tuffaceous sandstone (tomb of Kuwu Panjer), and sandy micrite (Ganesha statue of Kejawang) sourced from Halang Formation. Meanwhile, andesite rocks used to construct the Kalbut Stone and linga of Pejarakan were sourced from Gabon Formation.