The third phase of excavation work in Vembakottai, located in Virudhunagar district, has been underway since June 18.
During this excavation, a variety of ancient artefacts have been uncovered, including glass beads, stone beads, ancient bricks, flint, and conical lamps. Notably, a flint neck ornament with a pendant attached at the bottom was also discovered.
Among the findings is a flint carving of a woman’s head, measuring approximately 30.7 mm in height and 25.6 mm in width. Additionally, a copper coin from the 16th century, dating back to the reign of Madurai Nayaka King Veerappa Nayaka, has been unearthed.
A bell with an engraved image of a bull in Sirum Thim has also been found. This is the first time an engraving of a roaring bull at Thim has been discovered. The medallion measures 10.6 mm in circumference, 3.6 mm in thickness, and weighs 60 mg. While bulls have previously been found in clay thims, this is the first discovery of bulls carved in Suthupavala stone.
Gemstones that can be used to make sapphire beads are typically found only in the states of Maharashtra and Gujarat. The technique of hollowing out stone figures in this manner was unique to the Urom region.
Similar findings have been made in the excavations at Keezhadi and the port city of Cherar, Musiri (Pattanam), where medallions engraved with animal motifs were discovered in Suthupavala Kalmani. Figures of a wild boar and a flowing lion were found at the base.
The Suthupavala beaded pendants found at Keezhadi and Musiri are believed to belong to the Sangam period.