Carved from gray sandstone, the statue stands 61 centimeters tall, weighs 13 kilograms, and dates back to the 8th–9th century. It reflects the cultural interaction between Cham and Indian civilizations and is regarded as a representative work marking the transition from the 8th-9th century sculptural style to the golden age of Cham art in the 9th-10th centuries. With its unique historical, artistic, and scientific value, the piece is an invaluable source for the study of Cham sculpture and religious culture.

The artifact was discovered in Bac Binh before 1945 and was once preserved at the Binh Thuan Museum before being transferred to the Lam Dong Museum, where it is now on display.

It is one of three National Treasures currently housed at the museum, along with the Dak Son lithophone and the Golden Linga. The recognition not only helps safeguard and promote cultural heritage but also serves as a distinctive attraction for domestic and international visitors to Lam Dong.

Following the recent administrative merger, Lam Dong has become the country’s largest province by area. It boasts a wealth of heritage, including seven UNESCO-recognized sites, 10 national intangible cultural heritage elements, three special national relics, and 144 classified historical, cultural, and scenic sites. This strong foundation provides huge potential for the province to develop cultural tourism in a sustainable direction.

National treasure Cuu Dinh seeking UNESCO documentary heritage recognition

The Nine Dynastic Urns, built in late 1835 and completed in early 1837, was recognised as a national treasure in 2012, and considered the most valuable bronze works in Vietnam.