DESIGN

Discover the Splendour of Khmer Art in Captivating Cambodia

Dating back centuries to the country’s illustrious and resplendent past, Cambodian or Khmer art has always included diverse forms of expression in stone, textile, silver, ceramics, lacquer, weaving, kite decorations and temple murals. The artistic prowess of the Khmer people has always been one of their strongest cultural attributes.  Reaching its pinnacle during the Angkor period and having faced obliteration during the tyrannical rule of the Khmer Rouge, Cambodian art has survived and overcome many a political and dynastic upheaval to reach its current status today. A veritable treasure trove for art connoisseurs and lovers of ethnic artistic expression, the varied facets of Khmer art are best discovered by the materials used for the creation of these masterpieces.

 

Textile art reigns supreme in Khmer art as the elaborate and intricate designs weaved into the silk fabrics are nothing short of breathtaking in execution and attention to detail. Employing the ikat and two shaded uneven twill technique, the stunning fabric canvases typically contain bright natural dyes that are extracted from ebony barks, indigoes and insect nests. From exquisite Pidan tapestries to sampot wraparound skirts,  this labour intensive art form churns out timeless pieces in the silk-weaving centers concentrated in Siem Reap, Takeo,Beanteay Meanchey, Kampot and Battambang. Bamboo mat and basket weaving also holds a special place in Khmer art, in addition to the breathtaking stone carvings and sculptures that line the temple facades of Angkor. Staying true to tradition but adopting new methods and materials for their craft, visitors can witness the carvings and sculptures that adorn newly built temples in the country that are made of locally excavated Banteay Meanchey sandstone.

 

Cambodia’s proud tradition in lacquer ware is also worth exploring as the beetle boxes and Buddha icons made of the dark hued scorched wood pieces are just as captivating as the conventional silverware items found in the nation. Visitors can feast their eyes on the royally commissioned items of centuries past, while admiring the craftsmanship of jewellery boxes and souvenirs gilded with Angkor themes and fire designs.

 

Wat or temple murals form a unique facet of Khmer art as it is primarily visible in religious institutions. Highlights include the works in Siem Reap’s Wat Rajabo, Phnom Penh’s Silver Pagoda and Kompong Chhnang’s Wat Kompong Tralach Leu. Masks and kites also enjoy a special place in the region’s artistic practices as the ornately decorated items have evolved through the decades to become a popular form of expression in the country.

 

When it comes to exclusive hotels, Raffles Hotel Le Royal surpasses all other establishment as a quintessential luxury hotel Cambodia offers.  Conveniently located less than 20 minutes from the Pochentong International Airport and within close range of the Royal Palace, this stylish rest is undoubtedly one hotel Phnom Penh rates among its most advantageously placed accommodation providers.

About the Author

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Textile Arts Center: Sector B

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