Spices, Stones, and Scanning
The Southeast Asian Archaeology Newsletter for 23 - 29 September 2024
សួស្តី! We are coming into the last quarter of the year and this week, we are looking into a series of stories from Indonesia’s efforts to gain UNESCO recognition for its historical spice routes, to Cambodia’s ambitious use of 3D technology to digitally scan and preserve the Angkor temples. We’re seeing how ancient legacies are being safeguarded for future generations in both physical and digital realms.
Indonesia’s push to recognize its spice routes as World Heritage stresses the influence these maritime pathways had on the development of global trade and cultural exchange. Meanwhile, Cambodia’s soon-to-open “Immersive Angkor Museum” promises to offer a cutting-edge experience of the Angkor temples, utilizing 3D scanning technology to bring these ancient structures to life in new ways. The MOU between the Immersive Angkor Museum and the APSARA Authority was signed last week and the museum is set to open next year - I am excited for the possibility of the museum as a training outlet for locals in 3D scanning technologies, and also the museum as an accessible venue for less-mobile visitors, such as the elderly and disabled.
Meanwhile in Malaysia, recent findings from Gua Berhala are shedding new light on ancient Buddhist networks, showing how Southeast Asia’s past was deeply connected with broader regional traditions. These discoveries remind us that the stories written in stone and clay are not just local, but part of a vast web of historical interactions stretching across Asia.
In other news, I’m excited to share that the Online Lecture Library has been updated with six new talks, including presentations on Khmer stoneware, Indonesian cultural heritage, and the latest finds from Singapore’s Harbourfront. With 360 lectures now available, this resource is growing into a comprehensive repository for anyone passionate about Southeast Asian archaeology. That said, I’m certain there are more out there that I’ve yet to include—so if you know of any additional lectures or talks, I’d love your suggestions to make the library as complete as possible.
Finally, a big thank you to Serena Autiero, my newest supporter this week on Buy Me a Coffee! Your contributions, along with those of all my supporters, are a big part of what keep this newsletter going. Supporters get full access to the newsletter archive, as well as early and exclusive access to some members-only posts, e.g. the Rojak coming up later this week. Every little bit helps me continue to share the latest news, insights, and stories from the world of Southeast Asian archaeology. Thank you for being part of this journey!
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 buying me a coffee.
Highlights of the Week
In no particular order, here are five of the most popular stories from this week:
[New Book] A History and Historiography of Angkor | Une histoire et une historiographie d’Angkor
Michael Vickery’s posthumous book, A History and Historiography of Angkor, offers a critical analysis of Khmer history, combining his extensive research on inscriptions and historical sources. With Jean-Michel Filippi’s introduction, the book challenges existing cliches about Angkor, providing a fresh historiographical perspective on Cambodia’s medieval empire. Published by Hémisphères Editions.via Quaternary International, 20 September 2024: Linguistic, genetic, and archaeological evidence suggests multiple agriculture-driven migrations of Sino-Tibetan speakers from Northern China to India. Two routes of demic diffusion, via Sichuan–Tibet and Yunnan–Assam, spread millet farming, cultural elements, and languages into the Himalayan foothills and Kashmir, shaping the spread of the Sino-Tibetan language family.
[Paper] Restitution and repatriation as an opportunity, not a loss: some reflections on recent Southeast Asian cases
via Antiquity, 20 September 2024: This paper by Stephen Murphy explores the growing calls for restitution and repatriation of cultural objects, using three Southeast Asian case studies to highlight the positive outcomes of such processes. It argues that restitution should be viewed as an opportunity rather than a loss, encouraging institutions to proactively engage in returning cultural heritage. The examples from Thailand and Cambodia show how restitution fosters cultural revitalization and addresses historical wrongs.3D-Scanned Angkor Temples Set for Immersive Museum Experience
via various sources, 26 September 2024: The APSARA National Authority and Immersive Angkor have signed an MoU to develop the "Immersive Angkor Museum," set to open in 2025 in Siem Reap. Using cutting-edge 3D technology, the museum will offer an interactive journey through Angkor’s history, enhancing cultural understanding and preserving the temples digitally.
See also: Khmer Times, Khmer TimesHistoric Dong Nai Villa to Be Preserved Amid Road Project
A 100-year-old French-style villa in Dong Nai, Vietnam, will be preserved despite plans to demolish it for a road project. Authorities reversed the decision after recognizing its cultural and historical value. Built between 1922-1924, the villa faces ownership disputes delaying its official heritage listing.
Featured Books and Recommendations - Peripheral 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. They are curated because they are currently on sale.
Muslim Cultures of the Indian Ocean: Diversity and Pluralism, Past and Present by Stéphane Pradines and Farouk Topan (eds.) - (29% off!)
Ming China and Vietnam: Negotiating Borders in Early Modern Asia
by Kathlene Baldanza - (29% off!)
Ancestors of the Lake: Art of Lake Sentani and Humboldt Bay, New Guinea by Virginia-Lee Webb (ed.) - (53% off!)
Handbook of East and Southeast Asian Archaeology by Junko Habu, Peter V. Lape and John W. Olsen (eds.) - (53% off!)
Building and Remembering: An Archaeology of Place-Making on Papua New Guinea’s South Coast by Chris Urwin - (86% off!)
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] Magnetic detection of anthropogenic fires at Xiaodong Rockshelter, Southwest China
via Journal of Archaeological Science, 26 September 2024: This study by Zheng et al. uses magnetic methods to detect ancient anthropogenic fires at Xiaodong Rockshelter, Southwest China, a key Hoabinhian site. Magnetic enhancement due to iron-bearing minerals identified fire events dating between 65,000 and 15,000 years ago, revealing early fire control by Late Pleistocene populations in Southeast Asia.[New Book] A History and Historiography of Angkor | Une histoire et une historiographie d’Angkor
Michael Vickery’s posthumous book, A History and Historiography of Angkor, offers a critical analysis of Khmer history, combining his extensive research on inscriptions and historical sources. With Jean-Michel Filippi’s introduction, the book challenges existing cliches about Angkor, providing a fresh historiographical perspective on Cambodia’s medieval empire. Published by Hémisphères Editions.[Paper] Restitution and repatriation as an opportunity, not a loss: some reflections on recent Southeast Asian cases
via Antiquity, 20 September 2024: This paper by Stephen Murphy explores the growing calls for restitution and repatriation of cultural objects, using three Southeast Asian case studies to highlight the positive outcomes of such processes. It argues that restitution should be viewed as an opportunity rather than a loss, encouraging institutions to proactively engage in returning cultural heritage. The examples from Thailand and Cambodia show how restitution fosters cultural revitalization and addresses historical wrongs.via Quaternary International, 20 September 2024: Linguistic, genetic, and archaeological evidence suggests multiple agriculture-driven migrations of Sino-Tibetan speakers from Northern China to India. Two routes of demic diffusion, via Sichuan–Tibet and Yunnan–Assam, spread millet farming, cultural elements, and languages into the Himalayan foothills and Kashmir, shaping the spread of the Sino-Tibetan language family.
[Paper] Changing subsistence practices in pre-European populations of South Vanuatu
via Jornal of Archaeological Science Reports, 19 September 2024: This study by Valentin et al. examines the diets of pre-European populations from three South Vanuatu islands using carbon and nitrogen isotope analysis from bone collagen. Findings show high variability in individual diets, with marine coral reef fish, C3 plants, and mangrove resources being significant components. The research highlights challenges in understanding dietary shifts over time due to ecological, cultural, and sampling complexities.[Paper] Clay sealings from Perlis, Malaysia, and the wider world of the Bodhigarbhālaṅkāralakṣa-Dhāraṇī
via Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society, 19 September 2024: Clay sealings inscribed with the Buddhist Bodhigarbhālaṅkāralakṣa-dhāraṇī were discovered in Gua Berhala, Perlis, Malaysia, dating to the 10th century. This study provides a detailed reading of these sealings, comparing them with other dhāraṇī traditions in Asia. The findings suggest Perlis was an active participant in Buddhist networks, likely connected to the Bujang Valley's role in maritime trade routes.
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] Crossing Boundaries: Food and Southeast Asia, 1500-Present
The Asia Research Institute, NUS, invites papers for its April 2025 workshop "Crossing Boundaries: Food and Southeast Asia, 1500-Present." The event seeks to explore transnational food practices and connections beyond national frameworks. Submissions should address topics like food exchange, migration, and gastrodiplomacy in Southeast Asia. Deadline: October 25, 2024.[Talk] Sukhothai Art Without Inscription No. 1
Join Dr. Piriya Krairiksh, a leading Southeast Asian art historian, as he revisits his groundbreaking 1988 lecture on Sukhothai art and Inscription No. 1. Despite debates among scholars, Dr. Piriya has remained committed to his original thesis. In this talk, he will present his latest findings on Sukhothai art, drawn from decades of research. Siam Society, Bangkok, 26 October 2024Explore Singapore’s Heritage Through the National Library Digital Fellowship
The National Library Digital Fellowship offers a six-month funded opportunity for researchers to explore digital humanities using the collections of the National Library and National Archives of Singapore. Open to local and international scholars, the program encourages projects that apply digital tools to uncover new insights into Singapore’s history, arts, and culture.
Symposium on Conservation Ethics and Decision-Making
Durham University’s Palace Green Library is hosting a one-day Symposium on Conservation Ethics and Decision-Making, bringing together experts from diverse fields to discuss ethical challenges in conservation. Topics range from consulting stakeholders to preserving religious heritage and the use of AI in conservation. The event highlights the interdisciplinary nature of decision-making in cultural conservation and the broader impact on heritage objects and their communities. Not related to Southeast Asia, but some interesting relevant topics.
Upcoming Events
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Contact me if you have an event, public lecture or job posting that you want to publicise.
17 October 2024: Art, Diplomacy and the Projection of Power: The Thai Elephant Statues in Singapore, Jakarta and Ho Chi Minh City (Bangkok, Thailand)
26 October 2024: Sukhothai Art Without Inscription No. 1 (Bangkok, Thailand)
3-6 November 2024: 9th ASEAN Traditional Textile Symposium ATTS 9 (Vientiane, Laos)
20 November 2024: Symposium on Conservation Ethics and Decision-Making (Durham, UK)
11-29 November 2024: CollAsia 2024 (Chiang Mai, Thailand)
16-17 April 2025: Crossing Boundaries: Food and Southeast Asia, 1500-Present (Singapore and Online)
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)
2026: The Indo-Pacific Prehistory Association Congress (Yogyakarta, Indonesia)
New in the Online Lecture Library
[Back to Contents] [View the full Collection]
The Online Lecture Library is a searchable database of public talks related to the archaeology of Southeast Asia. Here are some recent additions to the list:
Introduction to the Khmer Stoneware: The Oldest Stoneware Industry in Southeast Asia
Preservation without Borders: U.S. - Indonesia Underwater Cultural Heritage
Fifty Years as Historians of Southeast Asia: Personal Perspectives
Living with the Mekong: Archaeological Perspectives and Alternative Futures
Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean World: from the late prehistoric to the early historical period
Southeast Asia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Southeast Asia]
Open Access Asia: Promoting Transparency in Asian Academic Publishing
I have pointed out a number of shady articles published in predatory journals over the years - Open Access Asia is dedicated to promoting ethical scholarly publishing across Asia. It raises awareness about open access research, combats predatory journals, and fosters a culture of transparency among researchers and policymakers. The initiative also supports digital access to research, ethical publishing practices, and knowledge sharing across the region.
[Paper] Restitution and repatriation as an opportunity, not a loss: some reflections on recent Southeast Asian cases
via Antiquity, 20 September 2024: This paper by Stephen Murphy explores the growing calls for restitution and repatriation of cultural objects, using three Southeast Asian case studies to highlight the positive outcomes of such processes. It argues that restitution should be viewed as an opportunity rather than a loss, encouraging institutions to proactively engage in returning cultural heritage. The examples from Thailand and Cambodia show how restitution fosters cultural revitalization and addresses historical wrongs.
Cambodia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Cambodia]
3D-Scanned Angkor Temples Set for Immersive Museum Experience
via various sources, 26 September 2024: The APSARA National Authority and Immersive Angkor have signed an MoU to develop the "Immersive Angkor Museum," set to open in 2025 in Siem Reap. Using cutting-edge 3D technology, the museum will offer an interactive journey through Angkor’s history, enhancing cultural understanding and preserving the temples digitally.
See also: Khmer Times, Khmer Times[New Book] A History and Historiography of Angkor | Une histoire et une historiographie d’Angkor
Michael Vickery’s posthumous book, A History and Historiography of Angkor, offers a critical analysis of Khmer history, combining his extensive research on inscriptions and historical sources. With Jean-Michel Filippi’s introduction, the book challenges existing cliches about Angkor, providing a fresh historiographical perspective on Cambodia’s medieval empire. Published by Hémisphères Editions.Cambodian Experts Restore Angkor Thom’s Ancient Laterite Wall
via Xinhua, 26 September 2024: Cambodian experts are restoring a 25-meter section of Angkor Thom’s laterite wall in the Angkor Archaeological Park, addressing damage from erosion and vegetation. This marks the sixth phase of the ongoing project.Angkor Wat’s Northern Embankment Restoration Set for 2025
via Khmer Times, 25 September 2024: The Apsara National Authority is restoring Angkor Wat’s northern embankment in the eighth phase of a long-term project. Repairs focus on a 20-meter stretch damaged by water erosion, with the restoration expected to finish by early 2025.Banteay Prei Temple's East Gate Undergoes Major Restoration
via Khmer Times, 24 September 2024: The second east gate of Banteay Prei temple, in severe disrepair, is currently being restored by the Apsara National Authority (ANA). Archaeologists face challenges in reconstructing collapsed and decayed sections. With 70-80% of required stones recovered since mid-August, the project will extend into 2025 as experts test foundations and source missing stones.Cambodia and AUF Collaborate to Promote French-Speaking Scientific Education
via Khmer Times, 23 September 2024: The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts and the Francophone University Agency (AUF) are enhancing cooperation to promote scientific Francophonie in Cambodia. Minister Phoeurng Sackona highlighted the ongoing collaboration with French-speaking universities to advance higher education opportunities. AUF Regional Director Nicolas Mainetti expressed gratitude for the partnership, and the ministry also noted its extensive efforts in research, conservation, and student scholarships.Thousands Flock to Angkor Wat for Stunning Sunrise Views
via Khmer Times, 23 September 2024: Nearly 40,000 national and international tourists visited Angkor Wat over three days to witness its stunning sunrise. Despite challenging weather, the iconic temple’s allure remained strong.
See also: Khmer TimesCambodian Artifacts' Return Ignites Youth Interest in Heritage
via VOA Cambodia, 21 September 2024: The return of over 70 looted Cambodian artifacts, including Hindu and Buddhist statues, has sparked renewed interest in Cambodia's cultural heritage. The National Museum's "Souls of Ancestors" exhibit is drawing younger Cambodians, who are reconnecting with their history through these repatriated relics.
[Paper] Restitution and repatriation as an opportunity, not a loss: some reflections on recent Southeast Asian cases
via Antiquity, 20 September 2024: This paper by Stephen Murphy explores the growing calls for restitution and repatriation of cultural objects, using three Southeast Asian case studies to highlight the positive outcomes of such processes. It argues that restitution should be viewed as an opportunity rather than a loss, encouraging institutions to proactively engage in returning cultural heritage. The examples from Thailand and Cambodia show how restitution fosters cultural revitalization and addresses historical wrongs.
Indonesia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Indonesia]
BRIN Pushes for UNESCO Recognition of Indonesia’s Spice Routes
via ANTARA, 26 September 2024: Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) emphasizes the historical and cultural significance of the nation's maritime and spice routes, which shaped its identity. Efforts are underway to secure UNESCO World Heritage status for the spice routes, with BRIN also collaborating on international research to preserve this heritage. The Ministry of Culture aims to submit the spice routes for UNESCO’s tentative list by next year.
See also: ANTARANetherlands Returns 288 Looted Artifacts to Indonesia
via The Art Newspaper, 20 September 2024: The Netherlands is repatriating 288 artifacts looted from Indonesia during the colonial era, including items from Bali’s 1906 Puputan Badung. Despite a new right-wing government, Dutch restitution policies remain intact. The repatriation is part of broader efforts to return cultural items wrongfully taken during Dutch colonial rule.
See also: Colonial Collections Committee, ANTARA, Jakarta Post, ANTARA[Paper] Restitution and repatriation as an opportunity, not a loss: some reflections on recent Southeast Asian cases
via Antiquity, 20 September 2024: This paper by Stephen Murphy explores the growing calls for restitution and repatriation of cultural objects, using three Southeast Asian case studies to highlight the positive outcomes of such processes. It argues that restitution should be viewed as an opportunity rather than a loss, encouraging institutions to proactively engage in returning cultural heritage. The examples from Thailand and Cambodia show how restitution fosters cultural revitalization and addresses historical wrongs.
Malaysia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Malaysia]
Old Sarawak Museum Nears Reopening After Lengthy Restoration
via Dayak Daily, 25 September 2024: The Old Sarawak Museum, closed since 2017 for extensive renovations, is expected to reopen by the end of 2024. Delays stemmed from technical challenges in installing and curating the exhibits. The reopening will showcase improved artifact preservation systems to protect its valuable collection.First ‘Night at the Museum’ Brings Sarawak’s Heritage to Life
via Borneo Post, 22 September 2024: The Borneo Cultures Museum's inaugural "Night at the Museum" celebrated Sarawak's rich cultural heritage with over 400 attendees. The event featured dance performances, musical theater, traditional fashion, and a special appearance by Malaysian artist Anuar Zain.Sarawak's Borneo Cultures Museum Reaches 1.1 Million Visitors in Two Years
via Dayak Daily, 21 September 2024: The Borneo Cultures Museum in Sarawak has attracted over 1.1 million visitors since its 2022 opening. Recognized as a Green Building, it continues to draw both domestic and international visitors, enriching the region’s cultural and environmental landscape.
[Paper] Clay sealings from Perlis, Malaysia, and the wider world of the Bodhigarbhālaṅkāralakṣa-Dhāraṇī
via Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society, 19 September 2024: Clay sealings inscribed with the Buddhist Bodhigarbhālaṅkāralakṣa-dhāraṇī were discovered in Gua Berhala, Perlis, Malaysia, dating to the 10th century. This study provides a detailed reading of these sealings, comparing them with other dhāraṇī traditions in Asia. The findings suggest Perlis was an active participant in Buddhist networks, likely connected to the Bujang Valley's role in maritime trade routes.
Myanmar
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Myanmar]
Restoration Challenges for 1,900 Damaged Pagodas in Bagan
via Radio Free Asia, 24 September 2024: Nearly 1,900 pagodas at Myanmar’s Bagan UNESCO World Heritage site have been damaged due to recent floods, exacerbating years of neglect and poor restoration practices. Archaeologists highlight inadequate staffing, the use of modern materials, and substandard preservation methods. Since the 2021 military coup, international support has withdrawn, worsening the situation.Fire Destroys Century-Old Building at Bagan Archaeological Site
via Xinhua/The Star, 22 September 2024: A fire destroyed a 100-year-old, two-story building at a monastery in Myanmar's Bagan archaeological site. The blaze, ignited by a candle, quickly spread due to the wooden structure’s flammable coating. Fortunately, no casualties were reported.
Singapore
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Singapore]
Explore Singapore’s Heritage Through the National Library Digital Fellowship
The National Library Digital Fellowship offers a six-month funded opportunity for researchers to explore digital humanities using the collections of the National Library and National Archives of Singapore. Open to local and international scholars, the program encourages projects that apply digital tools to uncover new insights into Singapore’s history, arts, and culture.
Thailand
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Thailand]
[Talk] Sukhothai Art Without Inscription No. 1
Join Dr. Piriya Krairiksh, a leading Southeast Asian art historian, as he revisits his groundbreaking 1988 lecture on Sukhothai art and Inscription No. 1. Despite debates among scholars, Dr. Piriya has remained committed to his original thesis. In this talk, he will present his latest findings on Sukhothai art, drawn from decades of research. Siam Society, Bangkok, 26 October 2024[Paper] Restitution and repatriation as an opportunity, not a loss: some reflections on recent Southeast Asian cases
via Antiquity, 20 September 2024: This paper by Stephen Murphy explores the growing calls for restitution and repatriation of cultural objects, using three Southeast Asian case studies to highlight the positive outcomes of such processes. It argues that restitution should be viewed as an opportunity rather than a loss, encouraging institutions to proactively engage in returning cultural heritage. The examples from Thailand and Cambodia show how restitution fosters cultural revitalization and addresses historical wrongs.
Vietnam
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Vietnam]
Historic Dong Nai Villa to Be Preserved Amid Road Project
A 100-year-old French-style villa in Dong Nai, Vietnam, will be preserved despite plans to demolish it for a road project. Authorities reversed the decision after recognizing its cultural and historical value. Built between 1922-1924, the villa faces ownership disputes delaying its official heritage listing.Historic 100-Year-Old Villa in Vietnam Faces Demolition for Road
via Vietnam Express, 21 September 2024: A 100-year-old French-style villa in Bien Hoa City, Vietnam, faces demolition due to a 5.2-km road project. The villa, historically significant and a regional landmark, may be spared if alternative solutions, such as redesigning the road, are approved. A team of officials is assessing preservation options.
Peripheral Southeast Asia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of ‘Peripheral’ Southeast Asia]
[Paper] Magnetic detection of anthropogenic fires at Xiaodong Rockshelter, Southwest China
via Journal of Archaeological Science, 26 September 2024: This study by Zheng et al. uses magnetic methods to detect ancient anthropogenic fires at Xiaodong Rockshelter, Southwest China, a key Hoabinhian site. Magnetic enhancement due to iron-bearing minerals identified fire events dating between 65,000 and 15,000 years ago, revealing early fire control by Late Pleistocene populations in Southeast Asia.500-Year-Old Shipwreck Yields 400+ Artifacts in South China Sea
via Global Times, 26 September 2024: China's advanced deep-sea technology has enabled the recovery of over 400 artifacts from two 500-year-old shipwrecks in the South China Sea. These relics, including rare Fahua ceramics, offer invaluable insights into mid-Ming Dynasty maritime trade along the ancient Maritime Silk Road. The artifacts are being showcased in an exhibition that blends archaeology with immersive VR experiences.via Quaternary International, 20 September 2024: Linguistic, genetic, and archaeological evidence suggests multiple agriculture-driven migrations of Sino-Tibetan speakers from Northern China to India. Two routes of demic diffusion, via Sichuan–Tibet and Yunnan–Assam, spread millet farming, cultural elements, and languages into the Himalayan foothills and Kashmir, shaping the spread of the Sino-Tibetan language family.
[Paper] Changing subsistence practices in pre-European populations of South Vanuatu
via Jornal of Archaeological Science Reports, 19 September 2024: This study by Valentin et al. examines the diets of pre-European populations from three South Vanuatu islands using carbon and nitrogen isotope analysis from bone collagen. Findings show high variability in individual diets, with marine coral reef fish, C3 plants, and mangrove resources being significant components. The research highlights challenges in understanding dietary shifts over time due to ecological, cultural, and sampling complexities.