These photos highlight the elegance of traditional Khmer clothing in a historic setting: the Ek Phnom temple. Capturing Cambodia's cultural heritage through the lens shows how important it still is today. The graceful movements and elegant clothing create a link between the past and the present.
Ek Phnom Temple, a testimony of the past
Located about ten kilometres from Battambang, Ek Phnom Temple was built in the 11th century during the reign of King Suryavarman I. This Hindu temple, dedicated to Vishnu, features a giant Buddha statue and a more recent pagoda that is still in use today. The ancient temple, now partly in ruins, is a square sanctuary with a ‘library’ building surrounded by an outer wall with entrance gates (gopuras). It stands on a hill, once surrounded by a ditch. The pediments feature scenes from Khmer legends, including the Churning of the Sea of Milk (Samudra Manthana), a Hindu myth that explains the creation of the nectar of immortality. Despite the passage of time, the ruins retain their charm, showcasing ancestral traditions.
Traditional Khmer clothing
Traditional Khmer clothing is often inspired by ancient legends found on the walls of Angkor temples, but not exclusively. These costumes, often associated with mythological figures and classical dances, reflect the elegance and refinement of Khmer art.
The most commonly worn garment is the sampot. This national garment, dating back to the Funan era, is a silk skirt worn in various ways depending on social status and occasion. In the photos above, the outfits are inspired by apsara dancers, celestial nymphs from Khmer mythology, who are often depicted wearing a richly decorated sampot, accompanied by a sbai (shawl draped over the shoulder) and elaborate jewellery.
The costumes of the Royal Ballet of Cambodia are also inspired by these legendary traditions. Dancers portraying mythological characters wear outfits decorated with embroidery, spangles and semi-precious gems. The three-pointed headdress, for example, is directly inspired by the representations of apsaras carved on the temples of Angkor.
These traditional costumes are not just clothing; they reflect a rich history and strong spirituality, keeping Khmer legends alive to this day.
A tribute to Khmer culture
These photos highlight the intersection of history and tradition. The Ek Phnom temple, a vestige of the Khmer past, serves as the backdrop for costumes inspired by local legends. This blend of sacred architecture and traditional dress showcases Cambodia's rich culture, where past and present come together with elegance.