Royal Bronzes: Cambodian Art of the Divine

Angkor, capital of the Khmer Empire, has preserved monumental remains of incomparable beauty from its past glory. But who remembers that these sanctuaries once housed an entire population of deities and cult objects cast in precious metals?

A subtle alloy, bronze gave rise in Cambodia to statuary masterpieces testifying to the loyalty of Khmer sovereigns to both Hinduism and Buddhism. The prerogative of the king, metallurgy was a sacred technique, the expertise of which was carefully preserved in royal workshops. 

Thanks to recent excavations, our knowledge of this bronze art has made spectacular advances. It is highlighted here through 200 remarkable works – including the exceptional Reclining Vishnu of the West Mebon, Cambodia's national treasure and the largest bronze ever found at Angkor. Thus, jewelry is at the heart of a dialogue at the crossroads of the arts, made possible by the fascination these works arouse. No century has celebrated the adornments with which we adorn the body with such pomp and imagination.

This book offers a rediscovery of one of the little-known aspects of art history, drawing on the latest scientific advances through a presentation of varied works of art.

Co-published by the National Museum of Asian Arts-Guimet, Paris and In Fine Editions; 304 pages, 274 illustrations. On view October 25, 2025 - January 18, 2026 in the Target Galleries.