Foreword

"Angkor Wat and the Glory of the Khmer Dynasty" exhibition, comprised of exhibits from the Phnom Penh National Museum, is being held to commemorate the cultural exchange between Cambodia and Japan.

The Angkor archaeological region, which attracts visitors worldwide, is the stage for one of the world's largest stone monuments that exemplifies glory of a great Dynasty.

In the beginning of the 9th century, kings of the Khmer Dynasty commissioned numerous temples and statues venerating Buddhist and Hindu gods. The elegantly serene and intricately carved works in stone and bronze are fine examples of the Khmer's humble respect toward nature and their hope for peace. Indeed, Angkor Wat and the monuments of Angkor may well be referred to as the ultimate "Art of Tranquility".

Through this exhibition, which showcases masterpieces from the Phnom Penh National Museum, we hope visitors will experience and appreciate the philosophical world of paradise created by the pious hands of the Khmer people centuries ago.

In 1992, the Angkor archaeological region was designated a World Heritage by UNESCO but was also listed as an endangered monument. Today, in cooperation with the Cambodian Government many countries including Japan are taking an active role to restore and conserve this significant region. We hope this exhibition will also serve to strengthen the awareness toward this effort and will contribute to developing the friendly ties between our two nations.

Lastly, we would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Royal Government of Cambodia and to the Phnom Penh National Museum for sharing their precious heritage with the people of Japan and our gratitude to all those who contributed in making this significant project possible.