A mysterious type of artefact, known as a ‘T-Section Disc’, has presented a challenging puzzle to scholars. They are found at more than 100 ancient sites (mainly in Sichuan, Henan, Jiangxi, and Guangdong) as well as in mainland Southeast Asia (Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar and Malaysia). Archaeological research reveals that T-Section discs were carved from a wide range of raw materials, including nephrite, stone, bronze, clay, shell and even animal bone. Sometimes they were decorated with fine incision patterns, beautifully polished, and eventually deposited in sites dated about 2500–500 BCE.

Building upon the scholarship related T-Section discs, this research attempts to develop a fuller understanding of the inter-linked technological and social significance of these discs. Furthermore, it will explore the possible patterns and networks of trade and exchange across ancient China and Southeast Asia.

About the Speaker

Chao Huang is a PhD Candidate at the Australian Centre on China in the World. His work focuses on experimental archaeology, technology and craft production, social networks, and exchange in China and Southeast Asia.