Publisher's Synopsis
Between the ninth and thirteenth centuries, Indochina was ruled by one of the most powerful and productive dynasties in its history: the Khmer. Although influenced by India, the Khmer succeeded in developing a distinctive culture that found its most vivid expression in temples. These unique buildings were made from long-lasting materials such as brick and stone to reflect their function as the homes of the immortal dieties. The first chapter of the book sets out the historical framework of the empire, and then the text explores the various aspects of the Khmer civilization, from the Indian-influenced court to the people of the rice-paddies. It describes the Khmers' principal religious concepts, their most important myths, and the structure of society, dominated by the powerful figure of the sovereign who, being at the center of the water-management system, guaranteed the survival of his people. The book continues with details concerning the everyday life of the people, their houses, customs, traditions, - and most important ceremonies. An ample section of the text is dedicated to archaeological excursions, and explains the development of the civilization's strongly symbolic art, which depicted the beliefs of an elite ruling class that originally sought to bring Heaven to Earth, but ended in considering itself divine.
