S11-5

Khok Ma Kok: A Late Prehistoric Cemetery in the Eastern Region of Thailand

The 5th Regional Office of Fine Arts, Prachin Buri, Department of Fine Arts, Thailand

Khok Ma Kok site (Khao Chakan District, Sa Kaeo Province, eastern Thailand) is a circular earth mound near the Khlong Nang Nai waterway, which connects to the Bang Pakong River that flows into the Gulf of Thailand. Human remains and artefacts such as carnelian and glass beads were reported to be found in the district. In 2016, first a survey and then excavations were undertaken at Khok Ma Kok by the 5th Regional Office of Fine Arts, Prachin Buri. This paper presents findings from the excavation, particularly, the burials which were classified and identified utilizing gross observation and radiocarbon analysis (C-14). Seventeen burials were recorded along with grave goods consisting of potteries, clay tools, bronze ornaments, iron tools, agate and carnelian beads, glass beads and gold glass beads. The burials and inhumations provide primary biological data on modes of interment, age at death structure, health and disease. Most of the inhumations were orientated with their heads to the southwest, except for one burial wearing the gold-glass beads. Several intercutting and disturbed burials indicates that the site was continuously utilized over a long period. C-14 dating of burials within the deepest layer produced dates 2380±150 BP and 2320±200 BP, which suggests the burial site can be assigned to the early Iron Age. The discovery of imported gold and glass beads suggests communication with other groups during the early historic period. Further studies should be undertaken in the area to determine the nature of the burial grounds and relationships with contemporary local cultures.