The early 12th-century temple complex of Angkor Wat stands as an enduring testament to the majesty and might of the Khmer empire. Although this World Heritage Site, whose form now graces the Cambodian flag, is often envisioned as being typical of Khmer royal architecture, it is actually a radical departure from the norm. Its sculptural reliefs, architectural plan, and religious focus all point to the innovative and grand agendas set by its patron, King Suryavarman II.

Robert DeCaroli details the history and development of the Khmer lineage of god-kings (devarajas). Starting in the time of the Khmer empire’s founding by Jayavarman II (early 9th century), he examines the importance of the royal temple mountain as an architectural statement of political and religious legitimacy.

A close reading of Angkor Wat’s sculptural program uncovers Suryavarman II’s possible goals in building this massive structure, revealing both his religious devotion and the expectations he held for his own eventual apotheosis.

DeCaroli is an associate professor of art history at George Mason University.

Smithsonian Connections

Go on a cruise to explore fascinating sites from Bangkok to Hong
Kong and enjoy the Splendors of Vietnam and Cambodia.
             
Visit the Smithsonian Journeys page to see more
trips to Cambodia.

Learn more about Cambodian traditional music, listen to selections from Smithsonian Folkways recordings>>