PHETCHABURI, Thailand – Archaeologists have uncovered a ninth human skeleton at the Don Yai Thong Archaeological Site in Phetchaburi province, adding to a series of discoveries dating from the prehistoric period to the transition into the Dvaravati cultural period approximately 1,500 to 2,000 years ago. The Fine Arts Office 1 in Ratchaburi said excavations at the site in Ban Lat district have previously uncovered six mahorathuk, or ancient bronze drums, along with earthenware vessels, glass beads, clay pellets, and eight human skeletons. Some of the remains were found with bronze ornaments covering the skulls, while another was discovered wearing gold bracelets, indicating elaborate burial practices and possible social distinctions.
The newly discovered Skeleton No. 9 was found in an extended supine position with the head oriented toward the northeast, consistent with earlier burials at the site. The remains include a femur, humerus, ribs, and a deciduous molar, suggesting the individual was likely a child under the age of 12. A bronze object was also found placed over the middle section of the body as a funerary offering. Additional discoveries include a bronze object near Bronze Drum No. 4 that may be a gong or another drum; two glass beads found between the leg bones of Skeleton No. 9; earthenware vessels; and a large quantity of fired clay fragments that may indicate activities involving heat or fire. Archaeologists will continue excavating the site to gain a more complete understanding of burial practices and the placement of grave offerings. (NNT)
