Confucian Clues and a Pedestal Puzzle
The Southeast Asian Archaeology Newsletter for 3 - 9 June 2024
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สวัสดีครับ! By the time you receive this newsletter, I will be in the thick of SPAFACON2024, with the opening ceremony set to start later this morning. We are thrilled to have the Minister of Education of Thailand as our guest of honor to launch the conference, along with distinguished guests like the Vice-Minister of Culture, observers from various embassies, partners, and over 300 participants from around the world. Follow the conference on my Instagram stories and the SEAMEO SPAFA social media for live updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses.
This week in Southeast Asian Archaeology, we have a few new discoveries that have made it into the news. In Laos, excavations on Done Pheungkham island in Bokeo have revealed a container filled with gemstones, gold, silver jewelry, and small Buddha images. This remarkable builds on several weeks of discoveries including what it now the largest Buddha image found in the country.
Thailand offers several intriguing discoveries. In southern Surat Thani province, an ancient sandstone pedestal linked to the Srivijaya Kingdom has been uncovered, thought to be the base of a deity image. In Nakhon Ratchasima, the discovery of two 1,500-year-old human skeletons underscores the ancient settlement of the area and potentially adding more information to prehistoric lifestyles in the region.
In Southern China, recent excavations at the Hebosuo site in Yunnan have unearthed bamboo and wooden slips with content from The Analects of Confucius, indicating that these texts reached Southwest China over 2,000 years ago. This significant find enriches our understanding of the spread of Confucian ideology and its influence on the Dian Kingdom.
These are just some of the stories in this week’s newsletter - scroll down for more updates on conservation, new research and upcoming events. On that note, wishing all our readers from the Philippines a Happy Independence Day on June 12. Also, if you are in town for SPAFACON, you may also want to attend this special event hosted by the Siam Society and EFEO in honour of Damian Evans on June 13.
Thank you for joining us on this journey through Southeast Asia's archaeological wonders. A special shoutout to our new supporters: Yinika Perston, Roz Li, Kamsin Kaneko, and Mike Calavan for the coffees. Remember, you can support Southeast Asian Archaeology through a friendly Buy Me a Coffee.
And now, on to the news!
Contents
The Southeast Asian Archaeology Newsletter and Website is supported in part by many generous readers, colleagues and friends. You can support by upgrading to a paid subscription, or by buying me a coffee.
Highlights of the Week
In no particular order, here are five of the most popular stories from this week:
Mae Hong Son Caves: 20-Year Archaeological Project Yields DNA Insights
via 101 World, 03 June 2024: In Mae Hong Son’s Pang Mapha District, archaeologist Prof. Dr. Rasmi Shoocongdej leads a 20-year project uncovering ancient human remains in cliff caves. DNA analysis from these remains reveals insights into the early human population and their environment. The project emphasizes collaboration with local communities and interdisciplinary methods, highlighting the region’s cultural and historical significance.
2,000-Year-Old Confucian Texts Unearthed in Yunnan Excavation
via Global Times, 23 May 2024: Recent excavations at Yunnan’s Hebosuo site have uncovered bamboo and wooden slips with content from The Analects of Confucius, indicating the text reached Southwest China over 2,000 years ago. The site, once the Dian Kingdom’s capital and later an administrative center during the Han Dynasty, revealed artifacts including 700 items and significant building remains, providing insights into the region’s historical administration and the spread of Confucian ideology.
Ancient Sandstone Discovery in Chaiya Linked to Srivijaya Kingdom
via Bangkok Post, 06 June 2024: A history tour group discovered an ancient sandstone artefact at Wat Palilaik in Chaiya district, Surat Thani. Experts believe it dates back to the Srivijaya period. The artefact, likely the base of a Hindu god Narayana statue, features carvings similar to those in ancient Khmer castles.
Vietnam’s Maritime Relics Face Threats from Theft and Lack of Resources
via Vietnam Net, 01 June 2024: Vietnam’s underwater relics, including artifacts from ancient shipwrecks, are under threat due to insufficient resources, lack of trained professionals, and increasing theft. Experts emphasize the urgent need for better funding, enhanced legal protection, and public awareness to preserve these cultural treasures. Despite recent efforts, including the establishment of the Việt Nam Centre for Underwater Archaeology, significant challenges remain in safeguarding Vietnam’s maritime heritage.
Ninh Binh Tourism Week Kicks Off with Unique Activities and Celebrations
via Vietnam Plus, 30 May 2024: Ninh Binh Tourism Week 2024, themed “The Yellow Colour of Tam Coc – Trang An,” offers various special activities from June 1-8, including tours, cultural performances, and a photo exhibition. Celebrating 10 years since the Trang An landscape was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the event highlights the beauty of the ripening Tam Coc paddy fields, one of Vietnam’s most picturesque landscapes.
Featured Books and Recommendations
[Back to Contents]
Some of the links below are affiliate links which mean I may get a commission if you click on them and make a purchase.
Southeast Asia: A History in Objects by Alexandra Green
Heritage Conservation and Tourism Development at Cham Sacred Sites in Vietnam: Living Heritage Has A Heart by Quang Dai Tuyen
Global Lives of Objects: Celebrating 100 Years of the National Museum of Asian Art by Massumeh Farhad and Sana Mirza (eds.)
The Camphor Tree and the Elephant: Religion and Ecological Change in Maritime Southeast Asia by Faizah Zakaria
Unseen Burma: Early Photography 1862-1962 by Thweep Rittinaphakorn
New Research
[Back to Contents]
If you have a newly-published paper that you wish to publicise, contact me and I’ll add it into the next newsletter.
[Paper] Early Holocene exploitation of taro and yam among southern East Asian hunter-gatherers
via Antiquity, 04 June 2024: Research by Wang et al. indicates that southern East Asian hunter-gatherers, specifically the Dingsishan cultural group, exploited taro and yam around 9030–6741 BP. Starch grains found in dental calculus and on tools suggest these staples supported population growth before rice and millet farming. Findings from sites in Guangxi and Vietnam show an Early Holocene economy based on indigenous tubers, nuts, and palms, establishing the region as an early center for taro exploitation.
[Paper] Winstedt, colonialism and the Malaysian history wars
via Indonesia and the Malay World, 28 May 2024: Richard Winstedt, a British scholar-official, significantly influenced the construction of Malaysian history, with his narratives still impacting modern interpretations. His work laid the foundation for the colonial state’s transition to post-colonial Malaysia, though often contested by local historians. This article by Milner and Wong explores how Winstedt’s colonial perspectives mingled with local narratives, creating a complex dialogic process in nation-building.
via Quaternary International, 31 May 2024: The Bianfudong Paleolithic site in Heqing, Yunnan, has unearthed over 69,000 mammal fossils, including micromammals from the late Middle Pleistocene. Analysis of 638 micromammal specimens from layers dated over 180,000 years ago reveals 12 species, indicating a cooler climate with a mean annual temperature of 12.84°C and precipitation of 1008.04 mm.
Upcoming Events
[Back to Contents]
Contact me if you have an event, public lecture or job posting that you want to publicise.
10-14 June 2024: SPAFACON2024 (Bangkok, Thailand)
12 June 2024: Creating a Cultural Heritage Management Plan - Case Study and Lessons from the Maros-Pangkep Geopark (Bangkok, Thailand - part of SPAFACON2024 but open to public)
13 June 2024: The Archaeology of Sites and Landscapes: Papers in Honour of Damian Evans (Bangkok, Thailand)
27 June 2024: Cultural Developments on the Khorat Plateau: Ancient Societies and Networks of Exchange (Bangkok, Thailand)
12-13 September 2024: ASEAN Museum Forum 2024 (Bangkok, Thailand)
23-26 September 2024: International Forum on the Spice Route (Jakarta, Indonesia)
Social Shoutout
[Back to Contents]
Sometimes I like to highlight other websites and social media accounts related to the archaeology of Southeast Asia. Contact me if you have or know of an account that deserves highlighting! This last week, I discovered this new website from a comment on the Facebook page - Luang Prabang Culture is a website run by Pete Simms about the history, sites and research about the Unesco World Heritage site of Luang Prabang.
Cambodia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Cambodia]
Restoration Begins on Bakong Temple’s Fifth Tower
via Khmer Times, 05 June 2024: Archaeologists have started restoring the fifth tower of Bakong temple in Angkor Archaeological Park due to its dilapidated condition. The work involves strengthening the brick structure, repairing walls, and sealing cracks to prevent water damage. Built in the late ninth century by King Indravarman I, Bakong is the first significant mountain temple in Angkor.
Cambodia’s Tourism Rebounds with Angkor’s Popularity
via Khmer Times, 03 June 2024: Cambodia’s tourism industry is witnessing a robust recovery, driven by a 36.9% increase in visitors to Angkor Archaeological Park in the first five months of this year. Angkor Enterprise reported a 38.2% rise in revenue from entrance pass sales, highlighting the park’s growing popularity. Enhanced airport facilities and Cambodia’s cultural allure contribute to this resurgence, with the Ministry of Tourism aiming to attract even more visitors through improved services and new tourism products.
Laos
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Laos]
Gemstones and Buddha Sculptures Unearthed in Bokeo Excavations
via Vientiane Times, 03 June 2024: Excavations on Done Pheungkham island in Bokeo, Laos, revealed a container with gemstones, gold, silver jewelry, and small Buddha images. Excavations, paused due to Mekong River flooding, have uncovered 284 Buddha images, the largest measuring 2.67 meters tall.
Malaysia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Malaysia]
[Paper] Winstedt, colonialism and the Malaysian history wars
via Indonesia and the Malay World, 28 May 2024: Richard Winstedt, a British scholar-official, significantly influenced the construction of Malaysian history, with his narratives still impacting modern interpretations. His work laid the foundation for the colonial state’s transition to post-colonial Malaysia, though often contested by local historians. This article by Milner and Wong explores how Winstedt’s colonial perspectives mingled with local narratives, creating a complex dialogic process in nation-building.
Philippines
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of the Philippines]
Manila Mayor Advocates for More Historical Markers
via Manila Times, 05 June 2024: Manila Mayor Maria Sheilah Lacuna-Pangan seeks to add more historical markers in the city to honor those who contributed to its rich history. At the 143rd anniversary of “Kagitingan sa Bangkusay,” she highlighted the need to remember local heroes, including Rajah Matanda, during the Manila Day celebrations.
National Museum Begins Conservation of Boljoon Church Panels
via Cebu Daily News, 04 June 2024: The National Museum of the Philippines is undertaking a six to eight-month conservation process for the historic pulpit panels of Boljoon Church, Cebu. This involves cleaning, consolidation, reconstruction, and varnish application. The panels, donated by collectors and currently displayed at NMP, will be returned to the Archdiocesan Shrine of Patrocinio de Maria Santisima after restoration. Efforts are ongoing to locate the missing sixth panel.
Explore Iloilo: The Emerging Museum Capital of the Philippines
via Inquirer, 31 May 2024: Iloilo City, with over 20 museums and galleries, is becoming known as the Museum Capital of the Philippines. The VISIT ILOILO campaign promotes the city’s rich history and cultural attractions, including the National Museum Western Visayas, Museo Iloilo, and contemporary art spaces like the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art.
Singapore
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Singapore]
Baba Nyonya Heritage Shines in Hainan Exhibition
via Borneo Bulletin, 06 June 2024: The “Exploring the World of Baba Nyonya” exhibition in Qionghai, Hainan, showcases the rich Peranakan culture through artifacts like a silver cigarette case, traditional clothing, and household items. Highlighting the cultural fusion of Chinese and Malay influences, the exhibition features 124 artefacts from Singapore’s museums. It aims to foster cross-cultural appreciation and understanding of the unique Baba Nyonya heritage, celebrating its historical significance along the Maritime Silk Road.
Peranakan Heritage Thrives in Singapore’s Katong and Joo Chiat
via The New Indian Express, 02 June 2024: Peranakan culture, a blend of Chinese, Malay, Indonesian, and other influences, thrives in Singapore’s Katong and Joo Chiat districts. Angeline Kong and Alvin Yapp offer tours of their museums, showcasing Peranakan antiques, beaded slippers, and traditional rituals. The vibrant Peranakan identity is also celebrated in local cuisine, with renowned eateries like Kim Choo Kueh Chang and the Michelin-starred Candlenut.
Thailand
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Thailand]
Phitsanulok Monk Caught Stealing Antiques for Car Repair
via Thaiger, 06 June 2024: A Thai monk, Boonshirt Klinyaem, was arrested for stealing Buddha statues and antiques from three temples in Phitsanulok. The 59-year-old monk claimed he needed money to fix his car. Police confiscated the stolen items, including Buddha statue heads, statues, and Sangkhalok ceramic ware.
Ancient Sandstone Discovery in Chaiya Linked to Srivijaya Kingdom
via Bangkok Post, 06 June 2024: A history tour group discovered an ancient sandstone artefact at Wat Palilaik in Chaiya district, Surat Thani. Experts believe it dates back to the Srivijaya period. The artefact, likely the base of a Hindu god Narayana statue, features carvings similar to those in ancient Khmer castles.
Cultural Clash Leads to Cancellation of Kantrum Performance at Si Thep
via Matichon, 04 June 2024: A minor kerfuffle at the Si Thep Historical Park when the authorities canceled a scheduled “Kantrum” performance – a folk music tradition from Northeast Thailand than often integrates Thai and Khmer – citing cultural differences because Kantrum is not native to Phetchabun. The park’s superintendent took responsibility and requested the event be moved outside the park to avoid further issues. The event will now be held in Nakhon Sawan Province. I’m sure there’s more nuance to this story that I have missed because it’s in Thai.
Mae Hong Son Caves: 20-Year Archaeological Project Yields DNA Insights
via 101 World, 03 June 2024: In Mae Hong Son’s Pang Mapha District, archaeologist Prof. Dr. Rasmi Shoocongdej leads a 20-year project uncovering ancient human remains in cliff caves. DNA analysis from these remains reveals insights into the early human population and their environment. The project emphasizes collaboration with local communities and interdisciplinary methods, highlighting the region’s cultural and historical significance.
1,500-Year-Old Skeletons Discovered in Nakhon Ratchasima
via Bangkok Post, 01 June 2024: Two human skeletons, dating back at least 1,500 years, were unearthed in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, confirming the existence of an ancient settlement in the area. The discovery, made during construction for a public park, included terracotta utensils and animal bones. This find suggests the region’s history predates the Ayutthaya period.
Vietnam
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Vietnam]
[Paper] Early Holocene exploitation of taro and yam among southern East Asian hunter-gatherers
via Antiquity, 04 June 2024: Research by Wang et al. indicates that southern East Asian hunter-gatherers, specifically the Dingsishan cultural group, exploited taro and yam around 9030–6741 BP. Starch grains found in dental calculus and on tools suggest these staples supported population growth before rice and millet farming. Findings from sites in Guangxi and Vietnam show an Early Holocene economy based on indigenous tubers, nuts, and palms, establishing the region as an early center for taro exploitation.
Vietnam’s Maritime Relics Face Threats from Theft and Lack of Resources
via Vietnam Net, 01 June 2024: Vietnam’s underwater relics, including artifacts from ancient shipwrecks, are under threat due to insufficient resources, lack of trained professionals, and increasing theft. Experts emphasize the urgent need for better funding, enhanced legal protection, and public awareness to preserve these cultural treasures. Despite recent efforts, including the establishment of the Việt Nam Centre for Underwater Archaeology, significant challenges remain in safeguarding Vietnam’s maritime heritage.
Ninh Binh Tourism Week Kicks Off with Unique Activities and Celebrations
via Vietnam Plus, 30 May 2024: Ninh Binh Tourism Week 2024, themed “The Yellow Colour of Tam Coc – Trang An,” offers various special activities from June 1-8, including tours, cultural performances, and a photo exhibition. Celebrating 10 years since the Trang An landscape was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the event highlights the beauty of the ripening Tam Coc paddy fields, one of Vietnam’s most picturesque landscapes.
Peripheral Southeast Asia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of ‘Peripheral’ Southeast Asia]
Baba Nyonya Heritage Shines in Hainan Exhibition
via Borneo Bulletin, 06 June 2024: The “Exploring the World of Baba Nyonya” exhibition in Qionghai, Hainan, showcases the rich Peranakan culture through artifacts like a silver cigarette case, traditional clothing, and household items. Highlighting the cultural fusion of Chinese and Malay influences, the exhibition features 124 artefacts from Singapore’s museums. It aims to foster cross-cultural appreciation and understanding of the unique Baba Nyonya heritage, celebrating its historical significance along the Maritime Silk Road.
[Paper] Early Holocene exploitation of taro and yam among southern East Asian hunter-gatherers
via Antiquity, 04 June 2024: Research by Wang et al. indicates that southern East Asian hunter-gatherers, specifically the Dingsishan cultural group, exploited taro and yam around 9030–6741 BP. Starch grains found in dental calculus and on tools suggest these staples supported population growth before rice and millet farming. Findings from sites in Guangxi and Vietnam show an Early Holocene economy based on indigenous tubers, nuts, and palms, establishing the region as an early center for taro exploitation.
via Quaternary International, 31 May 2024: The Bianfudong Paleolithic site in Heqing, Yunnan, has unearthed over 69,000 mammal fossils, including micromammals from the late Middle Pleistocene. Analysis of 638 micromammal specimens from layers dated over 180,000 years ago reveals 12 species, indicating a cooler climate with a mean annual temperature of 12.84°C and precipitation of 1008.04 mm.
2,000-Year-Old Confucian Texts Unearthed in Yunnan Excavation
via Global Times, 23 May 2024: Recent excavations at Yunnan’s Hebosuo site have uncovered bamboo and wooden slips with content from The Analects of Confucius, indicating the text reached Southwest China over 2,000 years ago. The site, once the Dian Kingdom’s capital and later an administrative center during the Han Dynasty, revealed artifacts including 700 items and significant building remains, providing insights into the region’s historical administration and the spread of Confucian ideology.