Good morning, archaeology aficionados! This week, our focus is on the theme of repatriation and the return of significant cultural artifacts to their home countries in Southeast Asia.
In Vietnam, the National Museum of History in Hanoi has welcomed the return of a bronze statue of Goddess Durga from the United States. This impressive 191cm, 101kg statue, is an example of craftsmanship from the Champa culture of middle to south Vietnam. It will now be featured in research and exhibitions.
Meanwhile, in Thailand, the Art Institute of Chicago has returned a 12th-century pilaster fragment which was traced to the Phanom Rung temple. This return was voluntarily made after a curator, Nicolas Revire, was conducting research on the provenance of the museum’s collections.
In Cambodia, the National Museum of Cambodia is showcasing nearly 100 looted artifacts that have been recently repatriated from the US and UK. These treasures, including statues and jewelry, are on display until December 18. The exhibition aims to educate the public about Khmer culture, with experts on hand to explain the historical and cultural significance of each piece.
These events highlight the ongoing efforts to locate and repatriate artefacts that have been looted from the region, and the efforts to stymie the trade in stolen antiquities and to return them from private collections and museums. More stories below highlight other developments relating to the archaeology of Southeast Asia, from new discoveries, to upcoming events, and employment opportunities.
I am pleased to acknowledge a new supporter this week - Dr. Sandra Sarjono’s Tracing Patterns Foundation has become my first institutional supporter. Many thanks! If you’d like to support my work on Southeast Asian Archaeology, consider Buying Me a Coffee, which goes towards paying the upkeep on the website. Supporters get access to the full archive of newsletters and bonus members-only posts.
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 popular stories from this week:
[Job] Assistant/Associate Curator for Southeast Asian and South Asian Art and Culture
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art is seeking an Assistant/Associate Curator for Southeast Asian and South Asian Art and Culture. The position, based in Washington, DC, involves curating, researching, and promoting the museum’s extensive collections, and fostering international collaboration. Closing date is July 5.
Book Review: Majapahit: Intrigue, Betrayal and War in Indonesia’s Greatest Empire
Book review of Majapahit: Intrigue, Betrayal and War in Indonesia’s Greatest Empire (affiliate link) by Duncan Graham on the Australian Institute of International Affairs.
Learn Conservation at Yogyakarta’s Cosmological Axis Field School
via the Centre for Heritage Conservation, Universitas Gadjah Mada: The First International Field School on the Cosmological Axis of Yogyakarta and Its Historic Landmarks will take place in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, from July 8-13, 2024. Organized by UNESCO Chair in Heritage Cities Conservation and Management and Universitas Gadjah Mada, the program aims to enhance understanding of urban heritage conservation and management. Deadline is 21 June 2024, or until all spots are taken.
[Paper] Risk and low-density dispersed urbanism
via Frontiers, 15 May 2024: This paper by Fletcher et al. explores the risks faced by low-density urban settlements, such as Greater Angkor and the Classic Maya, in the context of climate change. It discusses how these historical examples provide insights into the vulnerabilities of modern sprawling cities like the East Coast Megalopolis and the Pearl River Delta. The study emphasizes the need to understand past settlement patterns to address the challenges posed by severe climate change to contemporary urban regions.
Ming Dynasty Shipwrecks Yield Over 900 Artifacts in South China Sea
via various sources, 13 June 2024: Archaeologists have retrieved over 900 relics from two Ming Dynasty shipwrecks in the South China Sea. These artifacts, including porcelain, pottery, and timber, highlight the vibrant trade along the ancient Maritime Silk Road.
Featured Books and Recommendations - The Field Archaeologist
[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.
Archaeologist's Fieldwork Guide 2nd Edition by Barbara Ann Kipfer
Field Methods in Archaeology 7th Edition by Thomas R. Hester, Harry J. Shafer and Kenneth L. Feder
The Archaeologist's Field Handbook: The essential guide for beginners and professionals in Australia 2nd Edition by Heather Burke, Michael Morrison and Claire Smith
Photogrammetry Fundamentals: The Ultimate Survival Guide Paperback
by ARCHIV3D LTD
Excavation (Cambridge Manuals in Archaeology) 1st Edition by Steve Roskams
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] Risk and low-density dispersed urbanism
via Frontiers, 15 May 2024: This paper by Fletcher et al. explores the risks faced by low-density urban settlements, such as Greater Angkor and the Classic Maya, in the context of climate change. It discusses how these historical examples provide insights into the vulnerabilities of modern sprawling cities like the East Coast Megalopolis and the Pearl River Delta. The study emphasizes the need to understand past settlement patterns to address the challenges posed by severe climate change to contemporary urban regions.
Announcements
[Back to Contents]
Contact me if you have a call for papers or job posting that you want to publicise.
[Seminar] Thinking with the Andayas: Histories of (Southeast) Asia in Motion
Readers in Singapore may be interested in this hybrid seminar on the contributions of Barbara and Leonard Andaya to the fields of Asian studies and Southeast Asian history on July 5. The lineup of speakers are outlined in the post.
[Job] Assistant/Associate Curator for Southeast Asian and South Asian Art and Culture
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art is seeking an Assistant/Associate Curator for Southeast Asian and South Asian Art and Culture. The position, based in Washington, DC, involves curating, researching, and promoting the museum’s extensive collections, and fostering international collaboration. Closing date is July 5.
Learn Conservation at Yogyakarta’s Cosmological Axis Field School
via the Centre for Heritage Conservation, Universitas Gadjah Mada: The First International Field School on the Cosmological Axis of Yogyakarta and Its Historic Landmarks will take place in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, from July 8-13, 2024. Organized by UNESCO Chair in Heritage Cities Conservation and Management and Universitas Gadjah Mada, the program aims to enhance understanding of urban heritage conservation and management. Deadline is 21 June 2024, or until all spots are taken.
Upcoming Events
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Contact me if you have an event, public lecture or job posting that you want to publicise.
27 June 2024: Cultural Developments on the Khorat Plateau: Ancient Societies and Networks of Exchange (Bangkok, Thailand)
05 July 2024: Thinking with the Andayas: Histories of (Southeast) Asia in Motion (Singapore and Online)
10 July 2024: Beyond Heavy Metal: Revisiting the Bronze Age Economics of the Tin and Copper Belt of Zomia (Taipei, Taiwan)
11 July 2024: Buddhist Landscapes: Art and Archaeology of the Khorat Plateau, 7th to 11th Centuries (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
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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!
The Tracing Patterns Foundation, founded in 2018 by Dr. Sandra Sardjono, is an international community of scholars and textile makers dedicated to researching traditional and contemporary textiles, weaving and dyeing techniques, and cultural meanings, while also supporting original field research. The Tracing Patterns Foundation is also my first institutional supporter.
Southeast Asia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Southeast Asia]
[Seminar] Thinking with the Andayas: Histories of (Southeast) Asia in Motion
Readers in Singapore may be interested in this hybrid seminar on the contributions of Barbara and Leonard Andaya to the fields of Asian studies and Southeast Asian history on July 5. The lineup of speakers are outlined in the post.
[Job] Assistant/Associate Curator for Southeast Asian and South Asian Art and Culture
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art is seeking an Assistant/Associate Curator for Southeast Asian and South Asian Art and Culture. The position, based in Washington, DC, involves curating, researching, and promoting the museum’s extensive collections, and fostering international collaboration. Closing date is July 5.
Cambodia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Cambodia]
Temple Caretakers Preserve Angkor’s Heritage Through Rainy Season
via Khmer Times, 20 June 2024: Temple caretakers from the APSARA National Authority are diligently clearing plants and weeds from the Angkor Archaeological Park even during the rainy season. Their ongoing work aims to protect the temples’ structures from damage caused by invasive plant roots. Tourists are advised to maintain a safe distance during maintenance to avoid accidents.
Repatriated Cambodian Artefacts on Exhibit at National Museum
via various sources, 18 June 2024: Nearly 100 looted Cambodian artefacts, including statues and jewellery, have been returned from the US and UK and will be displayed at the National Museum of Cambodia until December 18. The exhibition aims to educate the public about Khmer culture, with experts on hand to explain the historical and cultural significance of each piece.
[Video] West Mebon Vishnu in Paris
via RFI Khmer 14 June 2024: A short video on the bronze reclining Vishnu from the West Mebon, which is now in France for conservation.
[Talk] The Archaeology of Sites and Landscapes: Papers in Honour of Damian Evans
Last week the Siam Society and EFEO hosted an evening of talks in Bangkok in honour of the late Damian Evans.
APSARA Begins 5th Phase of Bat Chum Temple Restoration
via Khmer Times, 14 June 2024: The APSARA National Authority has launched the fifth phase of the Bat Chum Temple restoration project, focusing on the central tower and high-risk areas. The ongoing work aims to reinforce the temple’s structure, prevent water damage, and restore its historical integrity. Built in the mid-10th century and dedicated to Mahayana Buddhism, Bat Chum Temple’s restoration will enhance visitor safety and appreciation of its architectural significance.
Palm Trees Symbolize Khmer Heritage in Angkor Park
via Khmer Times, 14 June 2024: The APSARA National Authority’s Department of Water, Forestry, and Infrastructure Management is annually planting thousands of palm trees in Angkor to preserve Khmer identity. This initiative reflects the cultural and daily significance of palm trees in Khmer life, promoting sustainable practices and long-term environmental management.
[Paper] Risk and low-density dispersed urbanism
via Frontiers, 15 May 2024: This paper by Fletcher et al. explores the risks faced by low-density urban settlements, such as Greater Angkor and the Classic Maya, in the context of climate change. It discusses how these historical examples provide insights into the vulnerabilities of modern sprawling cities like the East Coast Megalopolis and the Pearl River Delta. The study emphasizes the need to understand past settlement patterns to address the challenges posed by severe climate change to contemporary urban regions.
Indonesia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Indonesia]
Global Trade in Ancient Bali: Discoveries in Pangkung Paruk
via Atlas Obscura, 05 June 2024: Not a new discovery, but a showcase of archaeology in Bali through 2,000-year-old stone sarcophagi containing global grave goods, including Chinese mirrors and Roman Egyptian glass beads, showcasing ancient Bali’s extensive trade networks.
Book Review: Majapahit: Intrigue, Betrayal and War in Indonesia’s Greatest Empire
Book review of Majapahit: Intrigue, Betrayal and War in Indonesia’s Greatest Empire (affiliate link) by Duncan Graham on the Australian Institute of International Affairs.
[Seminar] Thinking with the Andayas: Histories of (Southeast) Asia in Motion
Readers in Singapore may be interested in this hybrid seminar on the contributions of Barbara and Leonard Andaya to the fields of Asian studies and Southeast Asian history on July 5. The lineup of speakers are outlined in the post.
Learn Conservation at Yogyakarta’s Cosmological Axis Field School
via the Centre for Heritage Conservation, Universitas Gadjah Mada: The First International Field School on the Cosmological Axis of Yogyakarta and Its Historic Landmarks will take place in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, from July 8-13, 2024. Organized by UNESCO Chair in Heritage Cities Conservation and Management and Universitas Gadjah Mada, the program aims to enhance understanding of urban heritage conservation and management. Deadline is 21 June 2024, or until all spots are taken.
Discovering Java’s Megalithic Past at Gunung Padang
via Archaeology Magazine, July/August 2024: Gunung Padang in western Java, an extinct volcano with five megalithic terraces, is believed to have been a sacred site for the ancestors of the Sundanese people. Scholars debate the site’s origins, with estimates ranging from 2,000 to over 20,000 years ago. Current rituals at the site reflect Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage and provide insights into ancient practices.
Malaysia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Malaysia]
Yayasan Warisan Johor: Guardian of Johor’s Heritage
via The Star, 20 June 2024: For over 25 years, Yayasan Warisan Johor has been pivotal in preserving Johor’s rich cultural heritage. Managing three museums and three galleries, YWJ houses around 5,000 artefacts, including manuscripts, textiles, and musical instruments. The foundation also conducts excavations across Johor, ensuring the conservation and study of the state’s historical treasures, fostering a deeper understanding of Johor’s past, present, and future.
Sarawak Unveils Masterplan Ahead of Niah UNESCO Bid
via Dayak Daily, 30 May 2024: Sarawak has unveiled a $100 million masterplan to develop Bekenu, Lambir, and Sibuti regions ahead of Niah National Park’s potential UNESCO World Heritage listing. The plan includes road upgrades, riverbank protection, and enhanced internet coverage to boost tourism and local economy.
Restoration of 100-Year-Old Rumah 1916 by AlBakri Family
via Ipoh Echo, 14 June 2024: Datuk Zahim AlBakri and his siblings are leading a project to restore Rumah 1916, a historic residence in Batu Gajah, Malaysia. This century-old house, with a rich history of diverse uses, is being returned to its original state to preserve its architectural heritage. The restoration is supported by Think City Sdn. Bhd. and includes a temporary exhibition on the family and local history.
400-Year-Old Meriam Cetbang Cannon on Display at Beruas Museum
via Sinar Daily, 14 June 2024: The Beruas Museum in Manjung has launched an exhibition featuring over 100 ancient Malay artifacts, including a 400-year-old Meriam Cetbang cannon from the Majapahit Empire. This exhibit, showcasing relics from the Gangga Negara, Beruas, and Manjung kingdoms, aims to educate visitors about the region's rich historical heritage.
Myanmar
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Myanmar]
[Seminar] Thinking with the Andayas: Histories of (Southeast) Asia in Motion
Readers in Singapore may be interested in this hybrid seminar on the contributions of Barbara and Leonard Andaya to the fields of Asian studies and Southeast Asian history on July 5. The lineup of speakers are outlined in the post.
Enhanced Conservation Plan for Myanmar’s Hanlin Heritage Site
via the Ministry of Information, Myanmar, 02 June 2024: A new conservation plan has been proposed for Hanlin, of the Pyu cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2014. U Kyaw Myo Win from the Department of Archaeology emphasized the need for better preservation, highlighting recent findings and ongoing efforts to protect the site’s artifacts, including a large sandstone slab and potential human statue.
Philippines
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of the Philippines]
Search for Boljoon’s Missing Pulpit Panel Continues
via Manila Times, 18 June 2024: The search continues for the missing sixth panel from the pulpit of Boljoon’s Nuestra Señora del Patrocinio de Maria Santisima Parish Church. Historian Dr. Jose Eleazar Bersales suggests it may be with a private collector in Cebu. Efforts are underway to locate and restore this panel, which complements the four already returned to the National Museum of the Philippines and one remaining in the church.
Spanish-Era Watchtower in Laoag Gets Historic Marker
via Philippine News Agency, 17 June 2024: Laoag City unveiled a historical marker for the Spanish-era Gabu Sur watchtower, highlighting its historical significance as a sentinel against pirate attacks. Recognized as a national cultural treasure, the marker aims to inspire preservation efforts and boost cultural tourism.
Yamashita Gold: Myth vs. Archaeological Reality
via Rappler, 16 June 2024: The allure of treasure hunting, exemplified by the myth of Yamashita’s Treasure, often misleads the public about the true purpose of archaeology. While treasure hunters seek monetary gain, archaeologists aim to uncover historical truths and preserve cultural heritage. Highlighting the importance of community engagement and strong heritage laws, this editorial by Stephen Acabado stresses that archaeology is about understanding our past, not finding gold.
Singapore
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Singapore]
[Seminar] Thinking with the Andayas: Histories of (Southeast) Asia in Motion
Readers in Singapore may be interested in this hybrid seminar on the contributions of Barbara and Leonard Andaya to the fields of Asian studies and Southeast Asian history on July 5. The lineup of speakers are outlined in the post.
Thailand
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Thailand]
Ancient or Not? Investigation into Wat Salakul Pagoda Demolition
via Matichon, 20 June 2024: The Fine Arts Department is investigating the demolition of three pagodas at Wat Salakul in Nonthaburi Province to determine if they qualify as unregistered ancient sites. Director Phongthan Samphao-ngen noted that an official assessment will be conducted to evaluate their archaeological, historical, and artistic value. Registration would ensure full protection and control under the Ancient Monuments Act.
Art Institute of Chicago Returns Ancient Pilaster to Thailand
via Art Institute of Chicago, 18 June 2024: The Art Institute of Chicago has returned a 12th-century pilaster fragment to Thailand’s Phanom Rung temple after provenance research confirmed its origins.
[Talk] The Archaeology of Sites and Landscapes: Papers in Honour of Damian Evans
Last week the Siam Society and EFEO hosted an evening of talks in Bangkok in honour of the late Damian Evans.
New Excavation Planned for Korat’s Non Pol Lan Site
via Bangkok Post, 16 June 2024: The Culture Ministry announced that further excavation at Korat’s Non Pol Lan site, where three ancient human skeletons were found, will resume after the rainy season. The Fine Arts Department will fund the project, aiming to uncover more artifacts and potentially establish a site museum to benefit the local community.
Vietnam
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Vietnam]
Hiep An Tran Dynasty Ceramic Jar Declared National Treasure
via Vietnam Net, 05 June 2024: The Hiep An ceramic jar from the Tran Dynasty, housed at the Hai Duong Museum, has been recognized as a national treasure by the Vietnamese government. Discovered in 1981 in Hai Duong province, this rare artifact is notable for its size, intricate brown-patterned designs, and unique craftsmanship that reflects the Buddhist influence of the 13th-14th centuries in Dai Viet. Despite minor damages during its unearthing, the jar remains largely intact and showcases a blend of sculptural and painted aesthetics.
Vietnam Welcomes Repatriated Bronze Statue of Goddess Durga
via various sources, 20 June 2024: A bronze statue of Goddess Durga, repatriated from the US, arrived at the National Museum of History in Hanoi on June 18. The 191cm, 101kg statue, reflecting the cultural and religious life of the Champa culture, will be used for research and exhibitions. This repatriation, a result of international cooperation, underscores Vietnam’s commitment to the 1970 UNESCO Convention on cultural property protection.
Historic Dong Son Bronze Drum Secures $1M Insurance
via Vietnam Net, 18 June 2024: The Sao Vang bronze drum, a 2,000-year-old artifact from Vietnam’s Dong Son culture, has been insured for $1 million. Unearthed in Thanh Hoa, it features intricate patterns and motifs symbolizing ancient Vietnamese artistry and cosmology, marking it a national treasure.
New Museums in Ho Chi Minh City Showcase Nguyen Dynasty Artefacts
via Tuoi Tre News, 16 June 2024: Two private museums have opened in Ho Chi Minh City, featuring Nguyen Dynasty artifacts and jewelry from Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. Curated by Do Hung, these museums aim to preserve and promote Vietnamese heritage, showcasing a fraction of his extensive collection.
Co Loa Temple’s Stone Dragons Declared National Treasures
via Vietnam Net, 13 June 2024: The stone dragons at Co Loa Temple in Hanoi, dating back to the 18th-century Le Dynasty Revival, have been declared national treasures. These intricately carved dragons, part of a staircase at the temple entrance, symbolize the energy of heaven and earth and reflect the unique sculptural art of the period.
Peripheral Southeast Asia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of ‘Peripheral’ Southeast Asia]
[Seminar] Thinking with the Andayas: Histories of (Southeast) Asia in Motion
Readers in Singapore may be interested in this hybrid seminar on the contributions of Barbara and Leonard Andaya to the fields of Asian studies and Southeast Asian history on July 5. The lineup of speakers are outlined in the post.
Ming Dynasty Shipwrecks Yield Over 900 Artifacts in South China Sea
via various sources, 13 June 2024: Archaeologists have retrieved over 900 relics from two Ming Dynasty shipwrecks in the South China Sea. These artifacts, including porcelain, pottery, and timber, highlight the vibrant trade along the ancient Maritime Silk Road.