An incredible discovery on an Australian beach could change our understanding of world history.
Two metal detectorists, Leon Deschamps and Shayne Thomson, claim to have found a statue of Buddha on the country’s west coast that dates back hundreds of years. It’s even possible that the artifact was left on Australian shores near the time of its creation – centuries before the first European arrived on the continent.
The discovery was made in Shark Bay, Western Australia, and was later examined by a British expert in Asian art, Lee Young, who confirmed that the statue was, in fact, a genuine Chinese Ming Dynasty creation. Speaking on an episode of the popular Antiques Roadshow, Young rejected the idea that the statue was a modern-day forgery, stating unequivocally, “Let’s clear it up straight away. Yes, it is Ming.”
The artifact is a bronze infant Buddha figurine, which Young explained would have been brought out in ceremonies to celebrate Buddha’s birthday. As such, it is portrayed as an infant. Young added that the statue would have belonged to someone of importance.
This is an extraordinary find that could rewrite world history if it has been in Australia for centuries. As a result, it could be worth tens of thousands of dollars, if not more. According to Young, due to the possible historical implications of the artifact, it could be sold for more than $100,000.
There are other possible explanations for how the statue ended up on an Australian beach, besides pre-European contact with the country. For example, historian Paul Macgregor believes the Buddha piece could have been left behind by Chinese fishermen who visited the area in the 1870s.
Regardless of its origin, this artifact is a fascinating discovery that challenges what we thought we knew about world history. The fact that it was found by two metal detectorists adds to the charm of the discovery, as it highlights how everyday people can make extraordinary contributions to our understanding of the past.
WATCH the video below for more details:
A rare piece of history has been found at Shark Bay in northern Western Australia.
Two mates came across a buddha figurine, which could be worth $1000. @JackHahn9News #9News pic.twitter.com/eI0rjahATr
— 9News Perth (@9NewsPerth) March 6, 2023
Sources: WesternJournal, News.com.au, The Guardian
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