Bronze Gong

14th-17th century CE

The National Maritime Museum, Chanthaburi Thailand

This bronze gong, discovered during the excavation of the Rang Kwian shipwreck in 1981, is a remarkable artefact reflecting maritime cultural practices in Southeast Asia. Made of bronze, an alloy of copper and tin, the gong has a central protrusion and a crown-shaped rim, indicating exceptional craftsmanship.

The gong features two holes, each about 4mm in diameter, which were probably intended for tying ropes, emphasising its portability. The gong was most likely used for communication or signalling during maritime voyages, perhaps during poor weather, or to contact other ships or people on the mainland. 

The presence of similar gongs in other shipwrecks throughout Southeast Asia, such as in Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia and the Philippines, suggests shared cultural connections and the development of local bronze gong production technology. Today, gongs continue to be an integral part of musical and ceremonial traditions in the region, highlighting their enduring cultural significance.