The Golden Boy: A Precious Treasure of Thai History

On July 20, 2024, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, United States, returned the bronze sculpture of Jayavarman VI, or "The Golden Boy," to Thailand. This was a great joy for Thai people, as it is a significant historical artifact.

The bronze sculpture of Jayavarman VI was found at Ban Yang Temple in Buriram Province, Thailand, in 1985. It was then smuggled out of the country and displayed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

The Thai government gathered evidence to reclaim the sculpture, pointing out that the style of the sculpture's loincloth, which is long and flowing, is a characteristic of Phimai art, which is found only in Thailand. The sculpture should therefore belong to Thailand.

In addition, the sculpture was found at Ban Yang Temple, which is located in Thailand. This is clear evidence that the sculpture should belong to Thailand.

The return of The Golden Boy to Thailand demonstrates international cooperation in protecting cultural heritage. It shows that Thailand values its cultural heritage and is willing to fight to reclaim stolen national treasures. In addition, the return of The Golden Boy to Thailand is an opportunity to promote Thai history and culture to the world.

Additional Interesting Details

The Golden Boy is about 27 centimeters tall and weighs about 11 kilograms. It is a bronze sculpture that is almost entirely gilded. It is about 1,000 years old.

Jayavarman VI was an important king of the ancient Khmer Empire. He founded the Mahidharapura dynasty and built Phimai Stone Temple, one of the most famous stone temples in Thailand.

The return of The Golden Boy to Thailand is the result of cooperation between the Thai government and the United States government. It shows that the two countries have a good relationship and are willing to cooperate to protect cultural heritage for humanity.

History of Jayavarman VI

Jayavarman VI was an important king of the ancient Khmer Empire. He reigned from 1718 to 1742. He was the first king of the Mahidharapura dynasty, which was founded after Jayavarman III died, causing the Khmer Empire to fall into chaos.

Jayavarman VI was a wise and capable king. He suppressed the rebellions and reunited the Khmer Empire. He was a Buddhist king and built many temples throughout the Khmer Empire, including Phimai Stone Temple.

Phimai Art

Phimai art was a flourishing art style in the northeastern region of Thailand from the 18th to the 19th centuries. Phimai art is characterized by its simple shapes, symmetrical patterns, and bright colors.

Phimai art was influenced by traditional Khmer art, but it also incorporated elements of other art styles, such as Indian art and Chinese art.

Historical and Cultural Value of The Golden Boy

The Golden Boy is an important bronze sculpture of Phimai art. It clearly shows the characteristics of Phimai art, both in terms of form and content.

The Golden Boy is therefore an important historical artifact that shows the development of art and culture in the ancient Khmer Empire.

In addition, The Golden Boy is a symbol of the Thai people's efforts to protect their national cultural heritage. The fact that Thailand was able to reclaim The Golden Boy shows that Thai people are committed to preserving their national cultural heritage.

The return of The Golden Boy to Thailand is a significant event in Thai history. It demonstrates international cooperation in protecting cultural heritage, the importance of cultural heritage, and the commitment of the Thai people.