France returns ancient drum to Vietnam after decade-long custody
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During a visit to France, Vietnam’s Party General Secretary and State President To Lam received a 2,000-year-old Dong Son bronze drum from the French Ministry of Culture.
The drum had been held at the Rennes Museum of Fine Arts since 2014, when French customs officers seized it due to a lack of proper documentation during transport.
French experts determined the drum dates back to approximately the fifth century BC and originates from the Dong Son culture, a Bronze Age society known for its metalworking skills in northern Vietnam. The drum is a significant artifact of Southeast Asian history, representing a key element of Vietnam’s cultural heritage.
French Culture Minister Catherine Pégard presented the drum to Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, emphasizing the importance of cultural preservation to both nations and the strengthening relationship between France and Vietnam. The artifact measures 40.7 centimeters tall and 54.5 centimeters in diameter, with a weight of 17.2 kilograms. Its return marks a step forward in cultural cooperation between the two countries, which maintain a comprehensive strategic partnership.
