Due to its important role in unique Khmer performances, leather carving for shadow puppetry has not only survived to the present day, but is thriving thanks to renewed interest in traditional theatrical performances.
Bas-reliefs on 7th century temples in the Angkor region depict shadow puppetry, including Sbek Thom, which is still performed today. Once reserved for special ceremonies, these performances visually tell the story of epic poems, and incorporate stunning leather carvings of fine detail. Sbek Thom is on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding.
Contemporary Cambodian leather carvers of the region continue to create complex works of art that are often crafted from a single hide. At the Fair Trade Village you’ll find leather carvings with patterns and illustrations used by Sbek Thom puppeteers to perform ancient tales. These large works of art include popular themes such as wildlife, apsaras, Hindu gods and the Buddha.
