From the Nile to Marina Bay
The Southeast Asian Archaeology Newsletter for 26 August - 01 September 2024
Xin Chao! September has arrived, and with it, a warm and Merry Christmas to all our Filipino readers ;) #iykyk
This week, our newsletter dives deep into the world of Champa heritage - the collection of Indic-influenced polities that once controlled the central and southern coasts of what is now-Vietnam. This week, a rare repatriated bronze statue of Durga, which was looted in association with Douglas Latchford, went on display at Vietnam’s National Museum of History to much fanfare. This impressive 7th century statue is life-sized and weighs just a little over 100 kg. Unfortunately, that’s about all we know about it - because it was looted, its exact place of origin is unknown. Accompanying it was a special exhibition of the Champa culture, which led to a heated debate on social media surrounding the authenticity of the artifacts on display with claims of counterfeit relics (it should be noted that the exhibition was created with the help of a local antique collector). Experts stand firm in their authenticity. If you are in Hanoi, the exhibition is on at the museum until the end of October.
In Cambodia, authorities have announce new changes to ease the hassle for visitors to Angkor, notably, lifting the need to provide photos and other ID checks when buying a one-day ticket, which theoretically means these visitors can spend more time at the temples and less time at the queues. The changes will take effect later this month. I wonder if this measure will translate to more tourists - but I suspect it is to reduce costs on the ground, especially since tourism has not returned to pre-pandemic levels yet.
Lastly, I was tickled to see an unlikely news story about tourism and archaeology cooperation between Egypt and Singapore. Alas, it does not seem that it will be cooperation in building archaeological capacity, but in the hope of bringing Egyptian artefacts to display in Singapore. And hopefully the other way around.
And before we move on to the news, a big thank you to Prof. Charles Higham for fueling my coffees this week - I am always grateful for support in running this website and newsletter, which is now in its 18th year of operation. A big shoutout to all my supporters from over the years.
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 my efforts by buying me a coffee.
Highlights of the Week
In no particular order, here are five of the most popular stories from this week:
Controversy Over Authenticity of Champa Artifacts at Hanoi Museum
via Vietnam Net, 30 August 2024: The "Champa Treasures: Marks of Time" exhibition at the Vietnam National Museum of History has sparked controversy, with social media users alleging some artifacts may be fake. Museum Director Nguyen Van Doan defended the exhibition, citing extensive research and expert evaluations that went into selecting the displayed items. Despite the claims, the museum and experts continue to stand by the authenticity of the artifacts.Rare Artifacts Unearthed in Banteay Kdei Temple Excavation
via Khmer Times, 28 August 2024: More information from the archaeological excavation at a mound near Banteay Kdei Temple by the Apsara National Authority and Japan’s Sophia University, which has uncovered rare Khmer and Chinese ceramics from the 12th and 13th centuries. The findings provide new insights into the settlement patterns and activities of those who lived around the temple during the pre- and post-Angkorian periods.
Ancient Champa Bronze Statue of Durga Returns to Vietnam
via Vietnam Plus, 28 August 2024: A rare bronze statue of Goddess Durga, trafficked into the US and recently repatriated to Vietnam, will soon be on public display at the National Museum of History in Hanoi. The statue, representing Champa’s 12th-century art, highlights Vietnam’s cultural heritage and underscores international cooperation in preserving historical artifacts.
See also: VOV World, Vietnam Plus, VOV WorldCambodia Eases Entry Rules for Angkor Visitors
via Khmer Times, 28 August 2024: Starting from late September 2024, tourists visiting Angkor for a day will no longer need to provide photos, nationality, age, or gender information when purchasing tickets. This change aims to enhance convenience and boost tourism. However, ID and photo requirements will still apply for 3-day and 7-day tickets until the end of 2024. The initiative also includes reducing checkpoints and introducing new ticketing technologies.
See also: Khmer TimesExplore Cambodia’s Angkor Sites with Korea’s Cultural Heritage ODA Tour
via The Korea Post, 27 August 2024: The Korea Cultural Heritage Foundation is offering the 'Cambodia Cultural Heritage ODA Tour' at Angkor Archaeological Park. This program, part of Korea’s ongoing efforts to restore Angkor monuments, provides exclusive guided tours to restoration sites, including the Bakan Tower and Preah Pithu Temple Complex, running twice weekly from September 10 to December 12, 2024.
Featured Books and Recommendations - Champa
[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.
Inscriptions of Campa - Based on the Editions and Translations of Abel Bergaigne,Etienne Aymonier,Louis Finot,Edouard Huber and Other French Scholars and ... with Calculations of Given Dates by Karl-Heinz Golzio (ed.)
From the Red River to the Mekong Delta: Masterpieces of the History Museum Ho Chi Minh City by Tun Hoang Anh, Tran Ky Phuong and Peter D Sharrock
Cham Sculpture and Indian Mythology by Huynh Thi Duoc
The Art of Champa by Jean-François Hubert
Vibrancy in Stone: Masterpieces of the Danang Museum of Cham Sculpture by Peter D. Sharrock and Vo Van Thang
New Research
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If you have a newly-published paper that you wish to publicise, contact me and I’ll add it into the next newsletter.
Reassessing Bronze Age Metallurgy in Upland Southwest China on the Basis of Excavations at Longbohe, Yunnan
via Journal of World Prehistory, 28 August 2024: Paper by Fu et al. Excavations at Longbohe, a newly discovered Bronze Age copper production site in Yunnan, China, reveal its role as a key point in the spread of metallurgical knowledge into Southeast Asia. Dating from 1400 BC to 100 BC, Longbohe’s strategic location along the Red River supports theories of metallurgy transmission from Southwest China to the broader region. The site’s advanced mining and smelting techniques highlight the importance of upland routes in the dissemination of Bronze Age technology.via Antiquity, 27 August 2024: A study by Eerkens et al. of Neolithic and Bronze Age shell disc beads from Ban Non Wat, northeast Thailand, reveals that nearly all beads originated from freshwater environments. The isotopic and morphological analysis suggests multiple production centers and extensive trade networks during the Bronze Age.
Announcements
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Contact me if you have a call for papers or job posting that you want to publicise.
[Call for Papers] – Museum International: Open Edition
Call for Papers by ICOM on a volume related to museums and museology. Deadline is 02 October 2023.
Upcoming Events
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Contact me if you have an event, public lecture or job posting that you want to publicise.
05 September 2024: The Guimet Museum's Plaster Cast Collection: The Example of Cambodia (History and Current Affairs) (Siem Reap Cambodia)
08 September 2024: Fiesta de Intramuros (Manila, Philippines)
10 September 2024: Searching for Borneo in British Museums: The Impact of Colonial Collecting (Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia)
12-13 September 2024: ASEAN Museum Forum 2024 (Bangkok, Thailand)
23-26 September 2024: International Forum on the Spice Route (Jakarta, Indonesia)
25 September 2024: The Second Cambridge History of Southeast Asia: Charting the Future of Southeast Asian History (Singapore and Online)
11-29 November 2024: CollAsia 2024 (Chiang Mai, Thailand)
17-19 July 2025: Decolonization of Southeast Asian Studies Workshop (Chiang Mai, Thailand)
8 - 13 September 2025: The Fourth Conference of European Association for Asian Art and Archaeology (Lisbon, Portugal)
Southeast Asia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Southeast Asia]
UH Mānoa Launches Museum Training Program with $429K Grant
via University of Hawaii News, 22 August 2024: The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s Center for Southeast Asian Studies received a $429,872 grant from the U.S. Department of State’s Cultural Heritage Center to launch a two-year Asia-Pacific Museum Exchange Program. The initiative aims to empower mid-career museum professionals across Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands through virtual and in-person workshops, focusing on conservation, digital engagement, and collections management.
Cambodia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Cambodia]
Angkor’s Environmental Management System Reviewed in APSARA Workshop
via Khmer Times, 30 August 2024: The APSARA National Authority held a workshop at Angkor Conference Hall focused on implementing the Environmental Management System for Angkor. Chaired by Sok Leakena, the event aimed to enhance environmental awareness and application of ISO 14001 standards among APSARA staff, emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts in Angkor Wat Archaeological Park. The workshop also highlighted the role of local communities in protecting this UNESCO World Heritage site.ANA Undertakes Northern Shrine Repairs at Cambodia's Neak Poan Temple
via Khmer Times, 29 August 2024: The Apsara National Authority has started restoring the northern shrine of Neak Poan Temple, following the successful completion of the eastern shrine's repairs. The restoration, which began in August, focuses on reinforcing the deteriorating structure while adhering to ancient architectural methods. Future work is planned for other parts of the temple.Unveiling Angkor’s Ancient Martial Arts Through Temple Carvings
via Phnom Penh Post, 28 August 2024: The Cambodian Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport has launched the "Khmer Martial Arts Journey to the Historical Site of Angkor" to document ancient fighting techniques depicted in Siem Reap's temple carvings. This project aims to preserve these historical martial arts by compiling them into official records, with the involvement of national Kun Khmer fighters and experts from the APSARA Authority.Cambodia Eases Entry Rules for Angkor Visitors
via Khmer Times, 28 August 2024: Starting from late September 2024, tourists visiting Angkor for a day will no longer need to provide photos, nationality, age, or gender information when purchasing tickets. This change aims to enhance convenience and boost tourism. However, ID and photo requirements will still apply for 3-day and 7-day tickets until the end of 2024. The initiative also includes reducing checkpoints and introducing new ticketing technologies.
See also: Khmer TimesTourists Turn Angkor Temples Into Real-Life ‘Temple Run’
via Phnom Penh Post, 28 August 2024: This story was covered last week, but its gaining traction in multiple news outlets recently. A viral trend inspired by the mobile game Temple Run has tourists racing through Cambodia's Angkor temples, igniting debate among cultural anthropologists and conservationists. While the trend boosts tourism and engagement, experts warn of potential damage to the nearly thousand-year-old ruins and the diminishing of their cultural significance. Cambodian authorities and locals are divided, with some embracing the attention and others urging caution to preserve the site’s integrity.
See also: New York Post, Daily Mail, Daily Star, The IndependentRare Artifacts Unearthed in Banteay Kdei Temple Excavation
via Khmer Times, 28 August 2024: More information from the archaeological excavation at a mound near Banteay Kdei Temple by the Apsara National Authority and Japan’s Sophia University, which has uncovered rare Khmer and Chinese ceramics from the 12th and 13th centuries. The findings provide new insights into the settlement patterns and activities of those who lived around the temple during the pre- and post-Angkorian periods.
Cambodia Rejoices as Stolen Khmer Artifacts Return Home
via ICIJ, 27 August 2024: Cambodia has celebrated the return of 70 stolen Khmer artifacts, including items from the Metropolitan Museum of Art and private collectors linked to antiquities trafficker Douglas Latchford. The repatriation marks a significant victory in Cambodia's long-standing effort to recover looted cultural treasures, culminating in a ceremony led by the prime minister.Banteay Kdei Dig Reveals Artifacts and Insights from Angkor Era
via Khmer Times, 27 August 2024: The Apsara National Authority and Japan's Sophia University conducted an excavation at a mound near Banteay Kdei Temple in early August, revealing insights into historical settlement patterns from pre-temple to post-Angkorian times. Using LiDAR technology, the team discovered Khmer and Chinese ceramics from the 12th-13th centuries, providing new evidence of life around the temple.
See also: Khmer TimesExplore Cambodia’s Angkor Sites with Korea’s Cultural Heritage ODA Tour
via The Korea Post, 27 August 2024: The Korea Cultural Heritage Foundation is offering the 'Cambodia Cultural Heritage ODA Tour' at Angkor Archaeological Park. This program, part of Korea’s ongoing efforts to restore Angkor monuments, provides exclusive guided tours to restoration sites, including the Bakan Tower and Preah Pithu Temple Complex, running twice weekly from September 10 to December 12, 2024.
Angkor Wat's Southern Stairs and Naga Balustrades Restored
via Khmer Times, 26 August 2024: The APSARA National Authority has completed the restoration of the southern central stairs and Naga balustrades at Angkor Wat, ensuring structural stability and visitor safety. The restoration, which began in May and concluded in August 2024, was crucial as the Naga balustrades had previously collapsed. ANA continues to assess other areas within the Angkor Archaeological Park for future preservation efforts.High School Students Visit Angkor Wat and Banteay Kdei Sites
via Khmer Times, 26 August 2024: The APSARA National Authority and Sophia University of Japan organized a study visit for 45 Nokor Thom High School students to explore the western causeway of Angkor Wat and the excavation site at Banteay Kdei Temple. The initiative aimed to instill a sense of cultural heritage appreciation and encourage active participation in its preservation among the younger generation.
Indonesia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Indonesia]
Herald van der Linde’s Majapahit: A Tale of Power, Betrayal, and History
via Manila Bulletin, 31 August 2024: Herald van der Linde's book Majapahit delves into the complex history of Indonesia's greatest empire through a blend of historical records and creative nonfiction. While rooted in actual events, van der Linde reimagines the intrigues, betrayals, and cultural achievements of the Majapahit Empire, making it accessible and engaging for modern readers. The book explores the empire’s rise and fall, drawing connections to contemporary Indonesian identity and history.Riau's Gondang Oguang Takes Center Stage in 2024 Cultural Residency
via Antara, 29 August 2024: The 2024 Cultural Advancement Residency in Riau, Indonesia, introduced the traditional Gondang Oguang musical performance to international participants. The program, featuring research and collaboration, aimed to create new musical compositions based on Indonesia’s rich oral traditions, blending them with contemporary styles.
Malaysia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Malaysia]
Penang’s Esplanade and Fort Cornwallis: Icons of Merdeka History
via The Star, 31 August 2024: Penang's Esplanade and Fort Cornwallis are pivotal historic sites that played significant roles in Malaysia's independence. The Esplanade was the venue for key events like the lowering of the British flag on August 30, 1957, marking the end of colonial rule. Fort Cornwallis, built in the 18th century, served as the British entry and exit point, symbolizing the transition to independence. These landmarks in George Town continue to be remembered for their importance in Malaysia's journey to Merdeka.Must-Visit Heritage Sites in Every Malaysian State
via The Sun, 28 August 2024: In conjunction with Malaysia’s Independence Day on August 31,this article explore’s Malaysia's diverse history through a curated list of significant historical sites in each state. From the Neolithic artifacts of Perlis' Kota Kayang Museum to the colonial grandeur of Penang’s Fort Cornwallis, each site offers a unique glimpse into the nation's rich heritage.
Myanmar
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Myanmar]
Drainage Upgrade at Bagan’s Shwezigon Pagoda
via Myanmar Ministry of Information, 28 August 2024: The Bagan Archaeology Branch is leading the restoration of Shwezigon Pagoda's platform to enhance drainage and preserve the ancient sandstone slabs. Due to increased rainfall from climate change, water accumulation has become an issue. The project includes documenting, leveling, and cleaning the platform while rediscovering historic water channels to prevent future flooding. This initiative is part of broader efforts to preserve the cultural heritage of the Bagan World Heritage Area.Bagan's Lacquerware Legacy: A Tradition Under Threat
via Xinhua, 27 August 2024: Bagan remains a vital center for the country's ancient lacquerware tradition, with families like Mar Mar Shwe’s and Aung Kyaw Tun’s passing down the craft for generations. Despite facing challenges like scarce materials and a dwindling skilled workforce, efforts to preserve this historic art form continue through local workshops, associations, and educational institutions.
Philippines
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of the Philippines]
Intramuros Hosts Inaugural Fiesta de Intramuros This September
via WheninManila, 28 August 2024: Intramuros, Manila's historic Walled City, will celebrate its first-ever Fiesta de Intramuros on September 8, 2024, honoring Nuestra Señora de la Consolación y Correa as its patroness. The event will feature religious ceremonies, cultural performances, a festive bazaar, and traditional Filipino games, highlighting the rich heritage of the area. This celebration serves as a prelude to the Silver Anniversary of the Canonical Coronation of the revered Marian image in 2025.Boljoon Church’s Stolen Panels to Return After Decades, Assures NMP
via Cebu Daily News, 27 August 2024: The National Museum of the Philippines has assured officials in Cebu that the early 19th-century panels, stolen from the Patrocinio de Maria Santisima Parish Church in Boljoon and missing for decades, will be returned. Restoration work on the panels depicting Saint Augustine of Hippo will begin in October and take around 12 weeks. The NMP also plans a larger restoration of the church, a National Cultural Treasure, with a fiesta-like homecoming for the panels.Negros Occidental Proposes 7 Landmarks for UNESCO Heritage Status
via Cebu Daily News, 26 August 2024: Seven historic sites in Negros Occidental, part of the "Sugar Cultural Landscape of Negros," have been nominated for UNESCO World Heritage status. These landmarks, including the Historic Center of Silay City and Victorias Milling Company, reflect the region's rich history in sugar production and its cultural significance from the Spanish-colonial and American-colonial eras. Two additional sites, Balay Ni Tan Juan and the Negros Occidental Capitol, are also being considered for the list.
Singapore
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Singapore]
Egypt, Singapore Discuss Boosting Tourism and Archaeological Cooperation
via Daily News Egypt, 26 August 2024: Egypt's Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Sherif Fathi, met with Singapore's Ambassador, Dominic Goh, to discuss enhancing cooperation in tourism and archaeology. They explored ways to boost Singaporean tourism to Egypt and discussed potential investments in Egypt’s hospitality sector. The meeting also highlighted collaboration on archaeological exhibitions in Singapore, aiming to promote Egypt’s cultural heritage.
Thailand
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Thailand]
via Antiquity, 27 August 2024: A study by Eerkens et al. of Neolithic and Bronze Age shell disc beads from Ban Non Wat, northeast Thailand, reveals that nearly all beads originated from freshwater environments. The isotopic and morphological analysis suggests multiple production centers and extensive trade networks during the Bronze Age.
Vietnam
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Vietnam]
Controversy Over Authenticity of Champa Artifacts at Hanoi Museum
via Vietnam Net, 30 August 2024: The "Champa Treasures: Marks of Time" exhibition at the Vietnam National Museum of History has sparked controversy, with social media users alleging some artifacts may be fake. Museum Director Nguyen Van Doan defended the exhibition, citing extensive research and expert evaluations that went into selecting the displayed items. Despite the claims, the museum and experts continue to stand by the authenticity of the artifacts.Champa Kingdom Treasures Unveiled at Hanoi's History Museum
via Vietnam Plus, 29 August 2024: The Vietnam National Museum of History in Hanoi is showcasing over 60 rare artefacts from the ancient Champa kingdom in a temporary exhibition. The items, dating from the 17th and 18th centuries, include religious statues and intricate gold and silver jewellery, many of which are on public display for the first time. The exhibition highlights Champa's unique cultural heritage, influenced by Indian and Javanese traditions, and runs until the end of October 2024.
See also: VOV World, Hanoi TimesAncient Champa Bronze Statue of Durga Returns to Vietnam
via Vietnam Plus, 28 August 2024: A rare bronze statue of Goddess Durga, trafficked into the US and recently repatriated to Vietnam, will soon be on public display at the National Museum of History in Hanoi. The statue, representing Champa’s 12th-century art, highlights Vietnam’s cultural heritage and underscores international cooperation in preserving historical artifacts.
See also: VOV World, Vietnam Plus, VOV WorldDr. Tran Tan Van: The Scientist Behind Vietnam’s UNESCO Heritage Sites
via VNANet, 27 August 2024: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Tan Van, former Director of the Institute of Geology and Minerals, is a key figure in preparing UNESCO World Heritage and Global Geopark dossiers for Vietnam. His most challenging work was the Trang An Landscape Complex, which faced numerous obstacles before being recognized as Vietnam’s first Mixed Heritage Site. Dr. Van continues to contribute to Vietnam’s heritage by connecting geological and cultural values with local livelihoods.
Peripheral Southeast Asia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of ‘Peripheral’ Southeast Asia]
Ancient Taiwanese Pulled Healthy Teeth for Beauty and Bravery, Study Reveals
via LiveScience, 29 August 2024: More coverage for the recent study that reveals that ancient people in Taiwan practiced ritual tooth removal for thousands of years, primarily for aesthetic reasons and as a test of courage. The practice, dating back 4,800 years, involved the painful extraction of healthy teeth, which was believed to enhance attractiveness, signify bravery, and sometimes serve as a health precaution.
Reassessing Bronze Age Metallurgy in Upland Southwest China on the Basis of Excavations at Longbohe, Yunnan
via Journal of World Prehistory, 28 August 2024: Paper by Fu et al. Excavations at Longbohe, a newly discovered Bronze Age copper production site in Yunnan, China, reveal its role as a key point in the spread of metallurgical knowledge into Southeast Asia. Dating from 1400 BC to 100 BC, Longbohe’s strategic location along the Red River supports theories of metallurgy transmission from Southwest China to the broader region. The site’s advanced mining and smelting techniques highlight the importance of upland routes in the dissemination of Bronze Age technology.UH Mānoa Launches Museum Training Program with $429K Grant
via University of Hawaii News, 22 August 2024: The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s Center for Southeast Asian Studies received a $429,872 grant from the U.S. Department of State’s Cultural Heritage Center to launch a two-year Asia-Pacific Museum Exchange Program. The initiative aims to empower mid-career museum professionals across Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands through virtual and in-person workshops, focusing on conservation, digital engagement, and collections management.