Synopsis
Angkor is a fascinating, mysterious site, twice the size of Paris, encompassing a vast variety of structures dating from the ninth to the fifteenth centuries. This new guide is the first extensive scholarly study of Angkor to be published since Maurice Glaize's Les Monuments du groupe Angkor, the first edition of which dates back to 1944. Author Jean Laur has written his study based on his firsthand observations and experience of Angkor as former Director of Monuments of the site, and on his continuous studies and research on Khmer art and architecture, reinforced by more recent visits to the various sites from 1996 to the present day. It is the culmination of a lifetime's work. The main body of the guide presents detailed descriptions of over one hundred temples within the Angkor group - including the most frequently visited Angkor Wat - and a smaller selection of key monuments outside of this group. Each entry is extensively illustrated with maps, drawings (including details of bas-reliefs and temple cross-sections) and photographs by the author.
Laur provides an accessible yet detailed history of Ancient Cambodia, and explains the area's principal geographical features and the life of the indigenous population during the region's golden age. He also provides a valuable introduction to the various forms and techniques of Khmer construction and the meaning, symbolism and purpose of Khmer monuments and statuary. The guide includes general information on visiting Cambodia including various suggested visistor's itineraries. As Southeast Asia in general, and Cambodia in particular, open up to visitors after decades of unrest, this guide is poised to introduce a greater understanding of the significance of this fascinating site.
