We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Pierre Pichard, on 22 August 2024, in France, at the age of eighty-eight.

Pierre contributed to the preservation of Vat Phou, among other important sites, through his immense knowledge acquired on restoration sites in South-East Asia and his ability to share his experiences with others.

Pierre’s contributions include his work on the training site for the main pediment and the eastern pediment of the Northern Quadrangle, his collaborative analysis with the Korean team for the Hong Nang Sida temple, and his past involvement with the Italian team in restoring the site's central aisle.

Additionally, his significant contributions to the Vat Phou office through the FSPs and Padul projects (funded by France and AFD), as well as his work with UNESCO, established him as a pivotal figure in maintaining Vat Phou’s prominence in Laotian heritage and the Asian world.

We, including all members of the Vat Phou office, fondly remember the stories and anecdotes Pierre generously shared, each reflecting the wealth of experience he accumulated during his various missions across Southeast Asia.

Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues, and we share in the grief felt by those fortunate enough to have worked closely with him and become his true friends.

May his great soul rest in peace.