Between 1927 and 1928, French archaeologist Jean-Yves Claeys conducted seminal excavations at Tra Kieu (Quang Nam), the ancient Cham citadel of Simhapura.

Unearthing Masterpieces

His fieldwork revealed the peerless Tra Kieu dancer altar, Gajasimha pedestal, and dozens of 10th-century relief sculptures representing the pinnacle of classical naturalism.

Claeys catalogued and safely transported these treasures to the museum, prompting the major gallery expansion completed in 1936.