In a breathtaking discovery that seems straight out of legend, fishermen off the coast of Sumatra have uncovered what could be the long-lost riches of the Srivijaya civilization, a fabled Indonesian kingdom that vanished mysteriously centuries ago.
The artefacts were part of the civilisation of Srivijaya – a powerful kingdom between the 7th and 13th centuries which mysteriously vanished a century later. Left: a small gold and gem ring with claws, possibly worn by a sacred bird; right: a 21.5cm buffalo and rider ornament
For the past five years, brave souls have plied the crocodile-infested waters of the Musi River near Palembang, unearthing a trove of treasures that speaks volumes about the opulence and cultural depth of this enigmatic civilization.
Dr Sean Kingsley, a British maritime archaeologist, said: ‘Great explorers have hunted high and low for Srivijaya as far afield as Thailand and India, all with no luck.’ Above: a twisted gold wire ring with semi-precious gem
Sumatra was referred to in ancient times as the Island of Gold due to it being rich in gold deposits and natural resources, and was an early point of arrival for trade in Southeast Asia. Pictured: A handful of gold rings, beads and sandalwood gold coins of Srivijaya, fished up off the seabed in the River Musi, Palembang, 7th-10th centuries
The sixth and seventh centuries saw a steady increase of Asian maritime trade, with a huge Chinese market opening up. A growing demand for Buddhist rituals, in particular, led to an increase in the export of Indonesian commodities to China. Above: A Srivijayan stamp seal on a precious gem
Among the remarkable finds are gemstones, gold ceremonial rings, coins, and bronze monks’ bells, hinting at a civilization steeped in wealth and spirituality. The crown jewel of the discovery is a jewel-encrusted, life-size statue of Buddha dating back to the 8th century, estimated to be worth millions of pounds.
Dr. Sean Kingsley, a distinguished maritime archaeologist from Britain, expressed astonishment at the findings, remarking, “Great explorers have hunted high and low for Srivijaya as far afield as Thailand and India, all with no luck.”
Dr Kingsley has revealed his research in the autumn issue of Wreckwatch magazine, which he also edits. The Srivijayan study forms part of the 180-page autumn publication which focuses on China and the Maritime Silk Road. Above: gem-studded jewellery
Aside from the night dives carried out by the local fishing crews, there have been no official excavations, which leaves many questions unanswered. Left: a bronze Buddhist figurine; right: another ornament among the treasure haul
The Srivijaya civilization, which flourished between the 7th and 13th centuries, has long been shrouded in mystery. Despite its once-mighty status, the kingdom vanished from historical records, leaving behind only whispers of its former glory.
Srivijaya’s power was based on its control of international sea trade. It established trade relations not only with the states in the Malay Archipelago but also with China and India. (Above, part of the treasure haul)
Sumatra itself earned the moniker “Island of Gold” in ancient times due to its abundance of natural resources, including gold deposits that attracted traders from far and wide.
Dr. Kingsley’s research suggests that Srivijaya was a pivotal player in the maritime trade routes of the time, connecting the Middle East to imperial China. The kingdom’s influence extended across the Malay Archipelago, forging trade relations with distant lands like India and China.
Fishermen prepare to free dive with a hookah breathing system, and iron chain for a weight belt, in the River Musi at Palembang in search of sunken treasure.
The recent discoveries shed light on Srivijaya’s prosperity and cosmopolitan nature. The artifacts unearthed include gold rings, beads, and sandalwood gold coins, reflecting the kingdom’s diverse cultural exchanges.
The Srivijayan civilization was indeed a “waterworld,” with its people living harmoniously alongside rivers and seas. However, the circumstances surrounding its demise remain murky. Dr. Kingsley speculates whether natural disasters or the gradual silting of rivers played a role in the kingdom’s downfall.
Fishing for treasure at Palembang on the River Musi at night. The artefacts found so far are being sold to antique dealers before they can be properly examined by experts
Despite the significance of these findings, concerns linger over the fate of these precious artifacts. Many have already found their way into the hands of antique dealers, lost to the world before experts could properly examine them.
Ancient and early modern Palembang on Sumatra was largely built in the water. Srivijaya has been described by Dr Kingsley as a ‘waterworld’, with people living on the river. He believes that when the civilisation came to an end, in the 14th century, their ‘wooden houses, palaces and temples all sank along with all their goods’
The story of Srivijaya, once lost to the annals of history, now resurfaces with tantalizing glimpses into its golden past. As Dr. Kingsley laments, “Newly discovered, the story of the rise and fall of Srivijaya is dying anew without being told.”
The discoveries made by Sumatran fishermen offer a rare glimpse into a bygone era, reminding us of the rich tapestry of human civilization that lies beneath the earth’s surface, waiting to be uncovered.