Lessons from the Gunung Padang Retraction
The Southeast Asian Archaeology Newsletter for 18 - 24 March 2024
Sugeng enjang! This week in Southeast Asian Archaeology, I'm diving headfirst into what I consider the most electrifying news of the week - the retraction of the contentious Gunung Padang paper by Natawidjaja et al. It's a rare occurrence, perhaps unprecedented, for an archaeology paper from our region to be retracted*. The buzz since its publication in October 2023 has ranged from sensational claims of a 25,000-year-old pyramid to a growing wave of skepticism from the archaeological and geological communities, culminating in the paper's withdrawal by the journal's editors and publishers last week. While many compelling rebuttals have been offered - click here for a rundown of the stories I’ve indexed already so far - I aim not to tread old ground but to ponder the teachable moments this episode presents.
How did this paper breeze through peer review? Speaking as a journal editor, I empathize with how this might have slipped through the net. Likely, the paper's reviewers were focused on methodological critiques, overlooking the need for regional expertise. Given the scant international literature on Gunung Padang, predominantly available in Indonesian, pinning down the right reviewers was no small feat. There was ultimately a lack of someone stepping back to look at the big picture - in this case the claim of an ancient pyramid.
The excavation's approach itself raises eyebrows. Sulistyowati and Foe's 2021 critique (notably absent in Natawidjaja et al.'s 2023 paper) underscores significant methodological lapses, including inadequate documentation and disregard for stratigraphy, culminating in the site's damage. A closer examination of Natawidjaja et al.'s methods reveals a rich variety of techniques but a glaring absence of a cohesive site map. The distribution of the 12 radiocarbon samples leaves one questioning whether they depict a localized stratigraphy or a piecemeal reconstruction. These methodological red flags were already being waved as far back as 2014, pointing to non-standard archaeological practices.
Let's not be swayed by the narrative of injustice and suppression. While the authors challenge the retraction, their dedication, though admirable, doesn't overshadow the shortcomings in their methodology and engagement with established archaeological practices. The echo of pseudoarchaeological claims, such as those from Graham Hancock about "suppression", is ironic, given the paper's continued online presence, retraction notice and all. The lead author's public sharing of the review process further underscores the critical scrutiny their work has undergone, highlighting the unscientific nature of the Gunung Padang excavation as a core issue.
Where do we go from here? It's worth reflecting on a saying often (though mistakenly) attributed to Mark Twain: 'a lie can travel halfway around the world before the truth has a chance to put on its shoes’. On the bright side, the Gunung Padang saga has significantly raised the site's profile. The public's engagement, particularly the outcry following the paper's claims, is encouraging, though I wish for more regional voices in the discourse. The true impact of the misinformation spread by the paper is hard to gauge, but its retraction is a crucial step in rectifying the scientific record. It’s really important that misinformation and disinformation does not go unchallenged.
*The earlier Malay Jong paper controversy, while not a formal retraction, saw the paper quietly removed from the journal's roster without explanation.
And now, on to the news:
Contents
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Highlights of the Week
In no particular order, here are five of the most interesting stories from this week:
Retracted: Controversial Gunung Padang cannot be “reliably interpreted”
via Archaeological Prospection, 18 March 2024: At last, the controversial Gunung Padang paper that claimed it was a 25,000-year-old pyramid has been retracted – by the journal’s editors and the publisher, but notably with the disagreement with all the paper’s authors. I was one of many people who raised concerns about the article, both to the editors and publicly, and I’m glad to see that the paper has been retracted – although, a significant amount of damage by way of misinformation has already been done.
A summary of the main flaws of the paper is as such: the radiocarbon dates that form the key claim to the supposed age of the “pyramid” does not come from material that can be reliably interpreted as human occupation layers. The paper also misrepresents itself by overstating the widespread acceptance of what is essentially a pseuodarchaeological theory. Other criticisms are outlined here, here and here.
Angkor Wat’s Equinox Aligns Perfectly This Week
via Khmer Times, 17 March 2024: Angkor Wat is set to witness the awe-inspiring equinox event on March 21, 2024, where the sun rises precisely over its central tower. This celestial phenomenon, deeply intertwined with the temple’s architectural design by the Khmer ancestors, attracts thousands of spectators globally.
Denver Museum to Return Stolen Asian Artifacts
via Denver Post, 17 March 2024: The Denver Art Museum has committed to returning 11 significant antiquities from Southeast Asia, previously associated with indicted art dealer Douglas Latchford and Emma C. Bunker. This decision, rooted in thorough provenance research and international pressure, highlights a growing movement towards ethical art acquisition and repatriation of culturally significant items. Denver is one of the stops in my upcoming lecture tour, I wonder if I might be able to see them artefacts on display before they get deaccessioned.
From Stone Carvings to Dinner Plates: Borobudur’s Culinary Legacy Brought
via Gastro Obscura, 07 March 2024: The Indonesian Gastronomy Community (IGC) has launched “Gastronosia: From Borobudur to the World,” a series of events that transform the rich stone reliefs of Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist monument, into an immersive dining experience. These events, which culminated in 2023, drew on the monument’s detailed depictions of ninth-century life to recreate the foods and feasts of Java’s ancient Mataram kingdom, highlighting the cultural and historical significance of Indonesian cuisine on a global stage.
Ancient Buddha Statues Found in Bokeo
via The Laotian Times, 20 March 2024: A collection of ancient Buddha statues, believed to be from a 14th to 16th-century temple, were recently discovered along the Mekong River in Bokeo Province, sparking a historical debate. The excavation led to the retrieval of 38 statues, with ongoing research to uncover more about their origins. The find has stirred excitement and skepticism, with some questioning the statues’ age due to their well-preserved appearance. Despite this, Lao authorities welcome Thai citizens to pay homage, emphasizing the shared cultural heritage.
Featured Books and Recommendations - Real Pyramids of Southeast Asia
[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.
Le site de Koh Ker et le règne de Jayavarman IV: Histoire, art et archéologie by Chanratana Chen
Ancient Sites of Southeast Asia: A Traveler’s Guide through History, Ruins, and Landscapes by William R. Chapman
Candi, Space and Landscape: A Study on the Distribution, Orientation and Spatial Organization of Central Javanese Temple Remains by V. M. Y. Degroot
The Javanese Candi: Function and Meaning by Soekmono
Borobudur: Majestic Mysterious Magnificent by John N. Miksic, Noerhadi Magetsari, Jan Fontein and Timbul Haryono
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.
via Quaternary Science Reviews, 15 April 2024: New speleothem stable isotope records from western Thailand provide a fresh perspective on the Indian Summer Monsoon’s early and rapid shift during the Younger Dryas termination, challenging previous chronologies. This study, which details climatic conditions from the Bølling-Allerød interstadial through the mid-Holocene, highlights a narrower timeframe for the Younger Dryas transition and a distinct Holocene trend towards drier conditions. These findings, contrasting with other Southeast Asian records, underscore the region’s complex hydroclimatic dynamics and the critical role of accurate paleoclimate reconstructions in understanding future changes.
[Paper] Adaptive foraging behaviours in the Horn of Africa during Toba supereruption
via Nature, 20 March 2024: A study of ancient artifacts and animal remains in Ethiopia reveals how early humans adapted to the dramatic climate changes following the Toba supervolcano eruption 74,000 years ago. Contrary to theories suggesting near-extinction, evidence indicates humans altered their diets and potentially used bows and arrows for hunting, showcasing remarkable adaptability. This discovery challenges previous notions about human dispersal from Africa, suggesting our ancestors could thrive in arid conditions and utilize “blue corridors” of seasonal rivers for migration.
[Paper] The Southwest Silk Road: artistic exchange and transmission in early China
via Bulletin of the School of Oriental and African Studies, 07 March 2024: This paper by Elias delves into the cultural and artistic exchange facilitated by the Southwest Silk Road in ancient China, particularly focusing on the development of bronze metallurgy in the Sichuan and Yunnan provinces. By examining the archaeological sites of Sanxingdui, Jinsha, and the ancient kingdom of Dian, it highlights the interconnectedness of these regions through shared artistic and technological advancements. The study suggests that the multi-ethnic nature of the Southwest, along with the movement of people and the availability of key minerals, played crucial roles in fostering unique local metallurgical cultures. The recent discovery of new sacrificial pits at Sanxingdui, with over 500 artifacts, promises to shed further light on the hypotheses discussed, emphasizing the ongoing need for comparative research in this rich area of study.
via Archaeological Research in Asia, 13 February 2024: Paper by Zhang et al. in the Yongjiang River Basin, Guangxi, China, has unveiled inaccuracies in previous dating methods, suggesting a much narrower timeframe for their development during the Early Holocene. This study highlights the importance of selecting appropriate materials for radiocarbon dating, such as nutshell over freshwater molluscs, to avoid the freshwater reservoir effect and provide more reliable age estimations for these archaeological sites.
Retracted: Controversial Gunung Padang cannot be “reliably interpreted”
via Archaeological Prospection, 18 March 2024: At last, the controversial Gunung Padang paper that claimed it was a 25,000-year-old pyramid has been retracted – by the journal’s editors and the publisher, but notably with the disagreement with all the paper’s authors. I was one of many people who raised concerns about the article, both to the editors and publicly, and I’m glad to see that the paper has been retracted – although, a significant amount of damage by way of misinformation has already been done.
A summary of the main flaws of the paper is as such: the radiocarbon dates that form the key claim to the supposed age of the “pyramid” does not come from material that can be reliably interpreted as human occupation layers. The paper also misrepresents itself by overstating the widespread acceptance of what is essentially a pseuodarchaeological theory. Other criticisms are outlined here, here and here.
Announcements
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Contact me if you have a call for papers or job posting that you want to publicise.
[CFP] Southeast Asian Studies Now
Prof. Stephen Acabado is soliciting papers for an upcoming volume on Southeast Asian Studies. Deadline for submissions is 30 April 2024.
[CFP] TRANSMAT DECOLONIZING MUSEUMS AND COLONIAL COLLECTIONS
Readers may be interested in this conference on colonialism and museum collections happening in Portugal in March 2025 . The deadline for paper proposals is April 30.
Upcoming Events
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Contact me if you have an event, public lecture or job posting that you want to publicise.
3-8 April 2024: A Decade of New Discoveries (Bangkok, Thailand)
7-13 April 2024: Crouching Tigers, Hidden Elephants (Petaluma, San Francisco, Cleveland, Chicago, Denver)
8-10 April 2024: Human Osteology Short Course (Sheffield, UK)
22-26 April 2024: Training Workshop on Heritage Impact Assessment in Southeast Asian Context: Principles, Methodology and Mitigation Measures (Melaka, Malaysia)
22 April - June 17 2024: Old Cities, New Challenges Course (Online)
1 June 2024: Conference on Jataka Tradition of Thailand (Bangkok, Thailand)
10-14 June 2024: SPAFACON2024 (Bangkok, Thailand)
23-26 September 2024: International Forum on the Spice Route (Jakarta, Indonesia)
Southeast Asia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Southeast Asia]
[CFP] Southeast Asian Studies Now
Prof. Stephen Acabado is soliciting papers for an upcoming volume on Southeast Asian Studies. Deadline for submissions is 30 April 2024.
Cambodia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Cambodia]
Koh Ker’s Prasat Prang Temporarily Off-Limits for Renovation
via Khmer Times, 21 March 2024: The National Authority of Preah Vihear has announced a 17-day suspension of visits to Koh Ker temple, specifically the Prasat Prang section, from March 20 to April 5, 2024, to facilitate crucial repairs on the wooden stairs. This initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance tourist safety and preserve the UNESCO-listed site, which has seen a significant increase in visitor numbers.
Global Experts Assess Preah Vihear for Temple’s Future
via Phnom Penh Post, 18 March 2024: International experts convened at the ninth plenary session of the ICC-Preah Vihear in Siem Reap, Cambodia, to discuss the ongoing restoration and development of the UNESCO-listed Preah Vihear temple. With the spotlight on conservation efforts and future plans for Gopuras I, II, III, and V, the session underscored a collaborative approach to safeguarding this ancient Hindu temple.
Cambodia Aims to Place Khmer Marriage on UNESCO Heritage List
via various sources, 14 March 2024: Cambodia’s Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts plans to nominate “Khmer Marriage” for inclusion in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list, highlighting the unique traditions of Cambodian weddings. The proposal aims to showcase and preserve the rich cultural heritage associated with Khmer marriage ceremonies, known for their elaborate rituals, music, and symbolism.
Cambodia and South Korea Strengthen Ties for Angkor’s Restoration
via Khmer Times, 17 March 2024: Phoeurng Sackona, Cambodia’s Minister of Culture, met with KOICA’s President Chang Won Sam to enhance cultural and heritage cooperation, focusing on the restoration of Angkor’s temples. This collaboration was highlighted during the 30th Plenary Session of the International Coordinating Committee for Angkor and Sambor Prei Kuk, underscoring a deepened partnership between Cambodia and South Korea. The agreement includes a notable project for the conservation of Angkor Wat’s Bakan, set to span 2024-2026.
38th ICC-Angkor/Sambor Prei Kuk Session Focuses on Temple Restoration
via various sources, 14-17 March 2024: The 38th Technical Session of the International Coordinating Committee for the Safeguarding and Development of Angkor and Sambor Prei Kuk convened, led by representatives from Japan and France, to evaluate and guide the ongoing restoration efforts of these historic Cambodian sites. The meeting, integral to the conservation of Cambodia’s heritage, underscores international collaboration in maintaining and enhancing the architectural and historical integrity of Angkor and Sambor Prei Kuk, reflecting a commitment to sustainable development and preservation practices.
Denver Museum to Return Stolen Asian Artifacts
via Denver Post, 17 March 2024: The Denver Art Museum has committed to returning 11 significant antiquities from Southeast Asia, previously associated with indicted art dealer Douglas Latchford and Emma C. Bunker. This decision, rooted in thorough provenance research and international pressure, highlights a growing movement towards ethical art acquisition and repatriation of culturally significant items. Denver is one of the stops in my upcoming lecture tour, I wonder if I might be able to see them artefacts on display before they get deaccessioned.
Angkor Wat’s Equinox Aligns Perfectly This Week
via Khmer Times, 17 March 2024: Angkor Wat is set to witness the awe-inspiring equinox event on March 21, 2024, where the sun rises precisely over its central tower. This celestial phenomenon, deeply intertwined with the temple’s architectural design by the Khmer ancestors, attracts thousands of spectators globally.
Indonesia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Indonesia]
[Paper] Adaptive foraging behaviours in the Horn of Africa during Toba supereruption
via Nature, 20 March 2024: A study of ancient artifacts and animal remains in Ethiopia reveals how early humans adapted to the dramatic climate changes following the Toba supervolcano eruption 74,000 years ago. Contrary to theories suggesting near-extinction, evidence indicates humans altered their diets and potentially used bows and arrows for hunting, showcasing remarkable adaptability. This discovery challenges previous notions about human dispersal from Africa, suggesting our ancestors could thrive in arid conditions and utilize “blue corridors” of seasonal rivers for migration.
Explore the Mystical Goa Jegles Cave in East Java
via Times Indonesia, 21 March 2024: Goa Jegles, a captivating cave in Kediri, East Java, is drawing tourists with its natural beauty and historical allure. The cave, believed to be formed by underground rivers or volcanic activity, features stunning crevices and a sunlit lake, offering a swimming experience amidst nature. With a history tied to the 16th-century figure Trunojoyo and the Majapahit era, Goa Jegles holds stories of meditation, rituals, and ancient relics.
Sonobudoyo Museum Unveils New Exhibition Space in Historic Karsten Building
via Harian Jogja, 19 March 2024: Sonobudoyo Museum in Jogjakarta inaugurated a new exhibition space within the Thomas Karsten Building, marking a significant step towards achieving international museum standards. The IDR 6.9 billion project showcases diverse collections ranging from Javanese household artifacts to maritime culture, aiming to blend cultural preservation with modern educational methods. The renovation emphasizes the integration of technology and storyline-based exhibits to enhance visitor experience and security. Article is in Indonesian.
Gunung Padang Paper Retraction: A Roundup
via various sources, 20-21 March 2024: More news coverage of the retraction of the 2023 paper claiming Gunung Padang in West Java, Indonesia was a prehistoric pyramid dating back 25,000 years. The paper was retracted by the editors and the publisher due to a major error – the dating of soil samples without associated man-made artifacts. I’m quoted in a few of these stories.
Colonial-Era Semarang Swamped by Sudden Deluge, Reroutes Trains
via Jakarta Post, 14 March 2024: Semarang, Central Java’s provincial capital, has been hit hard by torrential rains, leading to significant flooding in the Old Town area and Tawang Station. The floods, reaching depths of 50 centimeters, have made the colonial-era Old Town impassable for motorists and forced the state railway operator to divert routes away from the submerged Tawang Station.
From Stone Carvings to Dinner Plates: Borobudur’s Culinary Legacy Brought
via Gastro Obscura, 07 March 2024: The Indonesian Gastronomy Community (IGC) has launched “Gastronosia: From Borobudur to the World,” a series of events that transform the rich stone reliefs of Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist monument, into an immersive dining experience. These events, which culminated in 2023, drew on the monument’s detailed depictions of ninth-century life to recreate the foods and feasts of Java’s ancient Mataram kingdom, highlighting the cultural and historical significance of Indonesian cuisine on a global stage.
Retracted: Controversial Gunung Padang cannot be “reliably interpreted”
via Archaeological Prospection, 18 March 2024: At last, the controversial Gunung Padang paper that claimed it was a 25,000-year-old pyramid has been retracted – by the journal’s editors and the publisher, but notably with the disagreement with all the paper’s authors. I was one of many people who raised concerns about the article, both to the editors and publicly, and I’m glad to see that the paper has been retracted – although, a significant amount of damage by way of misinformation has already been done.
A summary of the main flaws of the paper is as such: the radiocarbon dates that form the key claim to the supposed age of the “pyramid” does not come from material that can be reliably interpreted as human occupation layers. The paper also misrepresents itself by overstating the widespread acceptance of what is essentially a pseuodarchaeological theory. Other criticisms are outlined here, here and here.
Laos
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Laos]
Ancient Buddha Statues Found in Bokeo
via The Laotian Times, 20 March 2024: A collection of ancient Buddha statues, believed to be from a 14th to 16th-century temple, were recently discovered along the Mekong River in Bokeo Province, sparking a historical debate. The excavation led to the retrieval of 38 statues, with ongoing research to uncover more about their origins. The find has stirred excitement and skepticism, with some questioning the statues’ age due to their well-preserved appearance. Despite this, Lao authorities welcome Thai citizens to pay homage, emphasizing the shared cultural heritage.
Malaysia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Malaysia]
Push to Designate Labuan Museum as National Heritage Site
via The Star, 21 March 2024: National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang is championing the listing of the Labuan Museum as a national heritage site, in recognition of its significant role in conservation and education over the past 20 years. With over 1.15 million visitors since its opening in 2004, the museum has been instrumental in preserving artifacts from various historical periods, including a notable Indian fin whale skeleton that was declared a National Heritage object in 2024.
Philippines
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of the Philippines]
Intramuros Shielded in Pasig River Revamp, Promises DHSUD
via Daily Tribune, 17 March 2024: The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) commits to preserving the historical integrity of Intramuros during the Pasig River rehabilitation project, as directed by President Marcos and the First Lady. The initiative, part of the Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli project, aims to transform the river into a hub for transport, recreation, and tourism, ensuring a seamless connection between Manila’s heritage sites and modern urban development.
Historic Iloilo Buildings Ravaged by Fire
via various sources, 16 March 2024: Following a devastating fire in Iloilo City that destroyed two historic structures within the Cultural Heritage Tourism Zone, local officials, led by Mayor Jerry Treñas, are calling on the National Historical Commission of the Philippines for assistance in preserving these heritage sites. The Divinagracia and Celso Ledesma buildings, dating back to the American and post-World War II eras, are significant parts of the city’s cultural legacy.
Philippines Expands UNESCO Tentative List with 7 New Sites
via various sources, The Philippines has bolstered its UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List with seven new entries, totaling 25 sites that span natural, cultural, and mixed categories. New additions include the Agusan Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary, the Samar Island Natural Park, and the Pujada Bay Protected Landscape and Seascape, alongside cultural sites like the Sugar Cultural Landscape of Negros and Panay Islands, and significant extensions such as the one for the Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras.
Deadly Search for Yamashita Treasure in Bukidnon cave Claims Lives
via Minda News, 12 March 2024: A perilous expedition for the fabled Yamashita treasure in a cave in Kadingilan, Bukidnon, resulted in one confirmed fatality and three others presumed dead due to suffocation. The victims were part of an eight-person group that ventured into the cave on March 10, 2024. Despite rescue efforts, dangerous conditions and carbon monoxide presence have hindered the retrieval of the remaining treasure hunters. Local authorities and the Disaster Risk Reduction Management office are cautioning against the risks of such treasure-seeking endeavors.
Thailand
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Thailand]
Ancient Buddha Statues Found in Bokeo
via The Laotian Times, 20 March 2024: A collection of ancient Buddha statues, believed to be from a 14th to 16th-century temple, were recently discovered along the Mekong River in Bokeo Province, sparking a historical debate. The excavation led to the retrieval of 38 statues, with ongoing research to uncover more about their origins. The find has stirred excitement and skepticism, with some questioning the statues’ age due to their well-preserved appearance. Despite this, Lao authorities welcome Thai citizens to pay homage, emphasizing the shared cultural heritage.
Phuttha Chinnarat National Museum: A Spiritual Journey in Phitsanulok
via Thai PBS, 21 March 2024: Phitsanulok’s Phuttha Chinnarat National Museum, set within the historical Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, offers a deep dive into the region’s spiritual and cultural heritage. The museum, open Wednesday to Sunday free of charge, displays a rich collection of artifacts, from ancient bronze drums to the revered Phra Phuttha Chinnarat Buddha image. Visitors can explore the royal and common offerings, archaeological treasures, and exquisite Buddha sculptures, each telling the story of Phitsanulok’s past and its continuing significance as a cultural hub.
Thailand Seeks UNESCO Recognition for Teacher-Honoring “Wai Khru” Ceremony
via Thai PBS, 14 March 2024: Thailand’s Ministry of Education is preparing to propose the “Wai Khru” ceremony, a traditional Thai ritual of paying respect to teachers, for inclusion in UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list. The centuries-old ceremony, which symbolizes gratitude and respect from students to educators, is celebrated annually at the start of the academic year.
via Quaternary Science Reviews, 15 April 2024: New speleothem stable isotope records from western Thailand provide a fresh perspective on the Indian Summer Monsoon’s early and rapid shift during the Younger Dryas termination, challenging previous chronologies. This study, which details climatic conditions from the Bølling-Allerød interstadial through the mid-Holocene, highlights a narrower timeframe for the Younger Dryas transition and a distinct Holocene trend towards drier conditions. These findings, contrasting with other Southeast Asian records, underscore the region’s complex hydroclimatic dynamics and the critical role of accurate paleoclimate reconstructions in understanding future changes.
Denver Museum to Return Stolen Asian Artifacts
via Denver Post, 17 March 2024: The Denver Art Museum has committed to returning 11 significant antiquities from Southeast Asia, previously associated with indicted art dealer Douglas Latchford and Emma C. Bunker. This decision, rooted in thorough provenance research and international pressure, highlights a growing movement towards ethical art acquisition and repatriation of culturally significant items. Denver is one of the stops in my upcoming lecture tour, I wonder if I might be able to see them artefacts on display before they get deaccessioned.
Vietnam
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Vietnam]
Excavation Begins at UNESCO’s My Son Sanctuary in Vietnam
via Vietnam Plus, 15 March 2024: The My Son Sanctuary in Quang Nam, Vietnam, recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, has commenced archaeological explorations on the eastern part of tower K. This collaborative effort by the Institute of Archaeology and the site’s Management Board aims to uncover and preserve artifacts, enhancing the conservation and understanding of this ancient religious and political center of the Champa Kingdom.
Bac Son Arc: Where Ancient Culture and Limestone Peaks Converge
via VNA net, 19 March 2024: The Bac Son Arc in Lang Son Geopark, established in December 2021, harbors significant archaeological, historical, and geological treasures, highlighted by the recent discovery of Neolithic remains in Bat Cave, reflecting the rich Bac Son culture. With over 600 artifacts unearthed, the site underscores the area’s potential for UNESCO Global Geopark status, aiming to blend cultural heritage with sustainable tourism development.
Immersive Night Tour Transforms Hà Nội’s Iconic Ngọc Sơn Temple
via Viet Nam News, 14 March 2024: Hà Nội’s historic Ngọc Sơn Temple has introduced an enchanting night tour, blending modern light and sound effects with traditional singing and dancing to retell the legend of King Lê Lợi. This innovative theatrical show transforms the temple into a lively narrative space, offering visitors a unique way to experience Vietnamese culture and history under the moonlit sky of Hoàn Kiếm Lake.
Denver Museum to Return Stolen Asian Artifacts
via Denver Post, 17 March 2024: The Denver Art Museum has committed to returning 11 significant antiquities from Southeast Asia, previously associated with indicted art dealer Douglas Latchford and Emma C. Bunker. This decision, rooted in thorough provenance research and international pressure, highlights a growing movement towards ethical art acquisition and repatriation of culturally significant items. Denver is one of the stops in my upcoming lecture tour, I wonder if I might be able to see them artefacts on display before they get deaccessioned.
Peripheral Southeast Asia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of ‘Peripheral’ Southeast Asia]
Sung Wong Toi Station Transforms into a Portal to the Past
via South China Morning Post, 21 March 2024: Over 500 archaeological treasures unearthed during the construction of Sung Wong Toi MTR station in Kowloon, Hong Kong, are being exhibited to the public. The artifacts, dating back to the Song and Yuan dynasties, provide a fascinating glimpse into the city’s ancient history, including its maritime trade involvement. Among the displayed items are intricately designed pottery, roof tiles, teaware, and jars, some bearing historical stamps of family and shop names. This unique exhibit, showcasing a mere 0.1% of the finds, aims to transform the station into a “museum on a train track,” inviting visitors to explore Hong Kong’s rich cultural heritage.
[Paper] Adaptive foraging behaviours in the Horn of Africa during Toba supereruption
via Nature, 20 March 2024: A study of ancient artifacts and animal remains in Ethiopia reveals how early humans adapted to the dramatic climate changes following the Toba supervolcano eruption 74,000 years ago. Contrary to theories suggesting near-extinction, evidence indicates humans altered their diets and potentially used bows and arrows for hunting, showcasing remarkable adaptability. This discovery challenges previous notions about human dispersal from Africa, suggesting our ancestors could thrive in arid conditions and utilize “blue corridors” of seasonal rivers for migration.
[Paper] The Southwest Silk Road: artistic exchange and transmission in early China
via Bulletin of the School of Oriental and African Studies, 07 March 2024: This paper by Elias delves into the cultural and artistic exchange facilitated by the Southwest Silk Road in ancient China, particularly focusing on the development of bronze metallurgy in the Sichuan and Yunnan provinces. By examining the archaeological sites of Sanxingdui, Jinsha, and the ancient kingdom of Dian, it highlights the interconnectedness of these regions through shared artistic and technological advancements. The study suggests that the multi-ethnic nature of the Southwest, along with the movement of people and the availability of key minerals, played crucial roles in fostering unique local metallurgical cultures. The recent discovery of new sacrificial pits at Sanxingdui, with over 500 artifacts, promises to shed further light on the hypotheses discussed, emphasizing the ongoing need for comparative research in this rich area of study.
[CFP] TRANSMAT DECOLONIZING MUSEUMS AND COLONIAL COLLECTIONS
Readers may be interested in this conference on colonialism and museum collections happening in Portugal in March 2025 . The deadline for paper proposals is April 30.
via Archaeological Research in Asia, 13 February 2024: Paper by Zhang et al. in the Yongjiang River Basin, Guangxi, China, has unveiled inaccuracies in previous dating methods, suggesting a much narrower timeframe for their development during the Early Holocene. This study highlights the importance of selecting appropriate materials for radiocarbon dating, such as nutshell over freshwater molluscs, to avoid the freshwater reservoir effect and provide more reliable age estimations for these archaeological sites.