Angkor and Khmer Art

Angkor, like Borobudur in Indonesia or Vat Phra Kaeo in Thailand, is one of the most important shrines of Buddhist art in all Asia. Angkor is among the treasures of Humanity's Heritage, under the protection of UNESCO. Angkor's temple, built in one of the most populous cities of the 11th century, is a prime example of religious art, but its "bas reliefs" also depict events in the lives of kings and their courts, wars and scenes from the everyday life of the common people. Between the 7th and 14th centuries, Khmer art, primarily sculpture, is characterized by perfection of line and monumental size. Profoundly influenced by Indian Art, it is nonetheless original and of obvious refinement. Long out of print, this volume is inspired, in part, by a revival of interest in Cambodian art. It presents the architectural treasures and splendid sculptures of a civilization that drew on Indian and Chinese influences to create a uniquely Cambodian art.