Le Royaume du Cambodge

The first comprehensive account of Cambodia's history, geography and society in a European language, published in two volumes in 1883.

Jean Moura (Author)

9781108083997, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 21 May 2015

502 pages, 23 b/w illus.
25.4 x 17.8 x 2.6 cm, 0.86 kg

In 1868, Jean Moura took up the post of Administrator of the French protectorate of Cambodia, established the previous year by invitation of the country's rulers who wanted freedom from Thai control. Apart from a short break in 1870, Moura stayed in his post at Phnom Penh until 1879. The foreword describes Moura's determined efforts to find out about every aspect of Cambodian history and culture, and explains how on his return to France he prepared this two-volume, illustrated reference work. Published in 1883, it was announced as the first serious study of Cambodia, indispensable to those wishing to seek their fortune in this most beautiful of French colonies. Volume 2 focuses on the royal chronicles of Cambodia, and on the country's ancient sites and antiquities, their architecture and decoration, before discussing contemporary architecture, visual arts, poetry, music and drama. The book ends with an appendix of recently deciphered Cambodian inscriptions.

1. Chronique royale du Cambodge
2. Aperçu sur les ruines du pays
3. Etat actuel des arts au Cambodge
Appendice.

Subject Areas: Asian history [HBJF]