| Many
of the Kingdom's most important works of art from the pre-Angkor and
Angkor era can be found in the National Museum. The most memorable piece
of artwork is the eight-armed statue of Vishnu dating from the 6th
century. The collection gives a unique insight into the skills of the
craftspeople that inhabited this area throughout the centuries.
This museum is an
attractive, rust-coloured building with a wooden roof frame, just north of
the Royal Palace.
Incorporating the University of Fine Arts, the repository of the
Kingdom's cultural wealth was inaugurated in 1920 by King Sisowath.
|
The museum's collection is divided into archaeological and ethnographic
masterpieces, ranging from 6th to 13th century sculpture, ceramics, Royal
barges and palanquins, as well as dance costumes from the 19th century.
In the central courtyard visitors can rest by the still waters of the
lotus ponds, while admiring the original statue of the Leper King
presumed to be Jayavarman VII from Angkor. |
