HCM CITY — More than 300 jewelry and ornamental items of Óc Eo culture from the 1st to 7th century are on display at the HCM City Museum of History.

The exhibition, titled “Báu vật Vương quốc cổ - Nghệ thuật kim hoàn và trang sức Óc Eo” (Treasures of the Ancient Kingdom – Óc Eo Jewelry and Ornaments), features Buddhist and Hindu religious items such as amulets or golden sheets engraved with images of gods, sacred animals, symbols and the lotus.

The jewelry items include earrings, bracelets, necklaces, medals and rings decorated with the Hindu Nandi and Egyptian scarab made of gems, gold, crystal and stone.

The decorative images and designs of these items show the cultural exchange between the East and the West in ancient times.

The exhibition also showcases tools for making jewelry and ornaments, including crucibles and moulds made of clay pots or stone.

Hoàng Anh Tuấn, director of the HCM City Museum of History, said: “The exhibition reflects the high level of skills of artisans in ancient times as well as the peak period of Óc Eo culture.”

The exhibition is co-organised by the museum and museums in Đồng Nai, Long An, Tiền Giang, Đồng Tháp, Cần Thơ, An Giang and Kiên Giang provinces.

It remains open until March 31. The museum is located at 2 Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm Street in District 1. — VNS