Louis Finot (archaeologist)

Louis Finot (1864-1935) was a prominent French archaeologist and orientalist, best known for his contributions to the study of Southeast Asian art and archaeology, particularly in Indochina (modern-day Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos). He played a pivotal role in the development of the École française d'Extrême-Orient (EFEO) in Hanoi, serving as its director from 1904 to 1920.

Finot's early work focused on Sanskrit and ancient Indian inscriptions. He expanded his research to include the art, architecture, and epigraphy of the Khmer Empire and other Southeast Asian civilizations. He meticulously documented and analyzed numerous sites and artifacts, making significant contributions to understanding the region's history and culture.

His publications include detailed studies of Cham art, Khmer inscriptions, and various aspects of Buddhist art and philosophy in Southeast Asia. He was instrumental in establishing the EFEO as a leading institution for research and preservation of the cultural heritage of Indochina. Finot's work laid the foundation for much of the subsequent scholarship in these fields and helped to raise international awareness of the rich artistic and historical traditions of the region. He remains a significant figure in the history of Southeast Asian studies.