Father and Son Unearth Mysterious Sandstone Statue in Siem Reap
Father and Son Unearth Mysterious Sandstone Statue in Siem Reap
SIEM REAP, October 20, 2026 — A father and son in Siem Reap have uncovered a damaged sandstone statue believed to possibly date back to the early 11th century while digging in their backyard, prompting calls for experts to examine the find and determine its authenticity.
The statue was discovered in Nokor Krao village, Kok Chak commune, Siem Reap province. Standing approximately 70 centimetres tall, the sculpture appears to depict a female deity in the Khleang style, although its age and authenticity have yet to be confirmed.
Statue Found With Broken Pieces Nearby
The sandstone figure is damaged, with its head, feet and right arm broken off. However, the detached pieces were reportedly found alongside the statue.
Local officials thanked the father and son for reporting the discovery to the relevant authorities, commending their decision to notify officials rather than keep the potentially significant object to themselves.
Experts will now examine the statue to determine whether it is an authentic ancient artefact.
Authorities Encourage Public to Report Ancient Finds
Officials have encouraged members of the public to report similar discoveries of potentially ancient objects to the appropriate authorities so they can be properly assessed and preserved.
The discovery also highlights the importance of careful authentication. Experts must distinguish genuine archaeological artefacts from modern reproductions designed to imitate the appearance of antiquity.
Some counterfeit antiquities are deliberately buried or chemically treated to simulate signs of age. The statue’s historical significance, therefore, should not be established solely on its appearance or the circumstances in which it was found.
The results of the expert examination are expected to clarify whether the sandstone figure is a genuine historical artefact and provide further information about its possible origins.
