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Kampong Preah style (706-800)


This art form reflects a dark period in the history of Cambodia caused by the dislocation of Tchen-la into two kingdoms.

The style of Kampong Preah is similar to that of Prei Khmeng, although an increasing number of statues are carved in a plainer fashion, in particular the folded edge of the sampot and the lengthwise fold.


Figure11. Durga(?)
Unknown origin
H: 141 cm
Ka. 318

The presence of the supporting arch, evidence of which can be seen in the marks at the back of the head, and the two-armed shoulders indicate that this deity is Durga.

The almond-eyes, sharp curved eyebrows, breasts, folds beneath the breasts, slender hips and, lastly the cylindrical mitre are characteristics of a classic Kampong Preah style sculpture.

The simplified fold and pleats of the garment show great elegance.

The face expresses natural beauty, with its curved upper lip and dimple in the chin. On her forehead, that the statue has probably already been consecrated.

Figure12. Female deity
Prasat Thleay, Takeo
H: 78 cm
Ka. 869

This sculpture is made of blackish sandstone and is missing both its arms.

Light strokes are used to outline the edge of the sampot folded on her stomach and the lengthwise fold of the cloth. The hair bun, in the shape of an ox hump, is adorned with flower garlands held by pendants. The round dot on her forehead likely holds the same significance as the sig on the front of the previous Durga.

While simplifying his design, the artist was able to show the natural beauty of the nipples underlined with a full are of a circle, and that of the folds of the stomach and the neck.
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