U.S. Consulate General Transfers Archaeological Artifacts to National Museum

February 20

U.S. Consulate General Chiang Mai Transfers Archaeological Artifacts to Chiang Mai National Museum
Chiang Mai, Thailand – U.S. Consulate General Chiang Mai was pleased to commemorate its delivery of a collection of archaeological artifacts to the Chiang Mai National Museum in a ceremony held on February 20, 2026. This transfer underscores the deep relationship between Thailand and the United States, and America’s respect for Thailand’s rich history and culture.
The artifacts were discovered during excavation work at the old U.S. Consulate General Chiang Mai facility and include fragments of pottery and ceramics dating back to the 1 5th-17th centuries CE. The 7th Regional Office of Fine Arts in Chiang Mai identified them as significant archaeological artifacts and asked the Consulate to store them securely.
The U.S. Consulate General Chiang Mai invited experts from the Chiang Mai National Museum, the 7th Regional Office of Fine Arts, and the Faculty of Social Sciences at Chiang Mai University to conduct a comprehensive inspection of the artifacts in July 2025. Following their assessment, experts from the Chiang Mai National Museum took custody of the artifacts in September 2025 to academically record and catalogue them. A total of 177 artifacts (399 pieces) were catalogued, with the following major findings:
• Fragments of high-fired stoneware: Likely produced at Lanna kiln sites such as Wiang Kalong, San Kamphaeng, and Lampang, dating approximately to the 15th-17th centuries CE.
• Fragments of Chinese ceramics from the Ming Dynasty: Dating approximately to the 15th-17th centuries CE.
• Fragments of Chinese ceramics from the Qing Dynasty: Dating approximately to the mid-19th to mid-20th centuries CE.
Today neMa Naional this for pratre head further at win a detailed inventory, to
Speaking at the ceremony, U.S. Consul General Kelia Cummins stated, “This handover represents more than the transfer of historical objects it reflects the principles that define the U.S.-Thailand partnership: respect for sovereignty, transparency, and collaboration. We are honored to place these artifacts in the care of the Chiang Mai National Museum for future generations.”
The Chiang Mai National Museum Director Chatlada Sinthusorn expressed gratitude for the collaboration, noting, “This handover reflects the shared commitment of the United States and Thailand to sateguarding the historical value of this location and the assets tound here. These artifacts will provide valuable insights into the region’s history and serve as an important resource for researchers and the public.”
The U.S. Consulate General Chiang Mai remains committed to collaboration with local institutions and to strengthening the enduring ties between the United States and Thailand.