This plaque is a form unique to the Dong Son tradition. The design comprises pairs of spiral motifs at the centre, framed by long canoes with bird-like prows and seated figures with feathered headdresses. Plaques may have been used for symbolic protection and probably reflected the high social status of their owner. Similarities in other traditions continue today, such as the use of protective silver plaques with spiral finials, by the Hmong hilltribe in northern Thailand.The sophisticated technology in bronze-casting suggests Dong Son society was advanced enough to have specialists who would have worked full-time in this field. This can be seen in the spread of bronze goods and technology throughout the Southeast Asian region.
