Archaeologists prepare to lift one-tonne soil block at Phetchaburi site
Don Yai Thong excavation enters delicate phase
Archaeologists at the Don Yai Thong excavation in Phetchaburi are preparing to lift a soil block weighing more than one tonne to protect the skulls of four ancient human skeletons.
The remains, believed to date back between 1,500 and 2,000 years, will be removed together with the surrounding soil to prevent them from breaking apart during the operation.
Don Yai Thong excavation team prepares soil block
Archaeologists from the Fine Arts Department’s Regional Office 1 in Ratchaburi are working with conservation science officers at the site in Ban Don Phlap, Samo Phlue subdistrict, Ban Lat district.
The team has excavated a rectangular block of soil around the four skulls to a depth of about 40 to 50 centimetres.
Chemical-free mulberry paper and a layer of plastic have been placed over the fragile remains. Polyurethane foam is then being applied around all four sides of the block to hold the soil and bones in position.
Channels will also be dug beneath the block so prefabricated concrete slabs can be inserted to support its base. Foam will be applied underneath before the entire section is lifted from the excavation pit.
The soil block and supporting slabs are expected to weigh more than one tonne.
Ancient objects found beside human remains
The four skulls form part of the first group of skeletons uncovered at the site. Bronze ornaments were found covering the skulls, while sections of the torsos, arms and legs have already been removed for further study.
Other discoveries made since excavation work began on 2 July include four bronze mahorathuek drums and the jawbone of an animal believed to be a cow or buffalo.
Two gold rings were also uncovered, including one engraved with the Brahmi inscription “Pusarakitasa”.
Experts have interpreted the inscription as meaning a person protected by the auspicious Pushya star or constellation.
The script is believed to date from around 1,900 to 2,100 years ago, according to specialists from Silpakorn University and the Fine Arts Department.
The conservation operation is intended to preserve the position and condition of the skulls before detailed scientific examination takes place.
