Phetchaburi: The Fine Arts Department has made a significant archaeological discovery at the Don Yai Thong site in Phetchaburi Province, uncovering two gold rings with inscriptions in Brahmi script, dating back 1,900-2,100 years. These artifacts were found amidst efforts to collect and preserve skeletons and other items affected by groundwater issues.
According to Thai News Agency, the discovery was part of a mission led by Ms. Nipa Sangkhanakinth, Director of the Fine Arts Office Region 1, Ratchaburi, following an assignment by Mr. Phanombut Chantharachote, Director-General of the Fine Arts Department. The excavation, taking place in the Samorphlu Subdistrict, Ban Lat District, faced challenges due to salinity and dampness, which threatened the integrity of the skeletal remains and bronze artifacts.
During the excavation, archaeologists identified two gold rings among the artifacts, one of which features inscriptions in the ancient Indian Brahmi script. The inscriptions, believed to date back to the 5th-7th centuries CE, translate to 'Pusarjitas,' meaning 'of Pusarachita,' related to the Vaishya caste. This suggests a connection to a merchant class individual under the protection of the Pushya star. The other ring was found to be unadorned. Similar inscriptions have been discovered at other sites in southern Thailand, like Khlong Thom and Khao Sam Kaeo. Both rings are now at the Phra Nakhon Khiri National Museum for conservation and further study.
The preservation of skeletal remains is being conducted in two stages: collecting individual fragments and lifting entire slabs from the excavation site. A team of Fine Arts Department scientists is overseeing the careful preservation to avoid damage. A bronze vessel was also found near one of the skeletons, believed to belong to a child. This complex operation is expected to conclude in a month, after which the excavation pit will be closed.
A press conference will be held to announce the initial findings, followed by an exhibition to showcase the artifacts to the public before the conservation and research phases commence.