According to a decision signed by Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Hoang Dao Cuong on 16/9, Luc, 65, residing in Van Tuong commune, was awarded 92,87 million VND for surrendering the artifact to the State.

The Quang Ngai Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism is tasked with disbursing the reward this year, utilizing cultural funds allocated for 2026.

Luc placed the statue on a rock in his fish pond for worship, believing it sacred. Photo: Provided by subject

In early 2021, while fishing in the Vung Buon area of Dung Quat sea, Luc discovered numerous broken pottery fragments. He dived approximately 50 meters from the shore, where he noticed a portion of a stone statue protruding from the sand.

In March of the same year, he and his relatives salvaged the statue, which weighed about 150 kilograms, and hired a crane to transport it home. In 2023, after being encouraged by authorities, he surrendered the artifact for preservation.

An appraisal by the Quang Ngai Provincial General Museum identified the artifact as a Hanuman monkey god statue, crafted from fine-grained sandstone, measuring 84 cm in height and 40 cm in width. The statue comprises an octagonal stone base 14 cm high and a 70 cm body, depicting the god Hanuman in a seated posture.

Its distinct characteristics, including a round head, bulging eyes, a high nose bridge, a wide mouth, and circular patterns with bell tassels around its belly, indicate a late Champa sculptural style influenced by Khmer art.

Luc kept the statue indoors and worshipped it after bringing it home. Photo: Provided by subject

Experts state that the artifact dates to the 11th-12th centuries. Its large size and relatively intact condition make it valuable for research and comparative studies. In 2025, the Quang Ngai Provincial People's Committee established public ownership of the statue and entrusted the museum with its reception and preservation.

According to regulations, individuals who accidentally discover and directly surrender relics, artifacts, or national treasures are eligible for a reward based on the asset's value. The reward is calculated on a progressive scale: 30% for the first 10 million VND; 15% for amounts between 10 million and 100 million VND; 7% for amounts between 100 million and one billion VND; 1% for amounts between one billion and 10 billion VND; and 0,5% for amounts exceeding 10 billion VND. This reward amount does not include personal income tax.

Pham Linh