The Angkor Tradition of Khmer Silversmithing Khmer silversmithing goes back to the Angkor period. As early as the 11th century, Cambodian silversmiths were known far beyond their national borders. They mainly produced for the royal palace and the rich upper class. Silver was made into a variety of items, including weaponry, coins, ceremonial objects used in funerary and religious rituals, and betel boxes.
Silversmithing at Kampong Luong commune near Phnom Penh
The largest community of blacksmiths today is located near the ancient royal city of Oudong. Here in Kampong Luong commune, about 45 km north of Phnom Penh on National Road 5, families produce mainly boxes in animal shapes, jewelry and sacred objects. These have usually decorations from the Angkor temples. Men make the forms for such works; the women make the intricate filigree.
You can order the artworks of silver shown here in the size you want. The material is sterling silver, with a silver content of at least 92.5%; stamped with the seal of the Khmer Silversmith Association of the Cambodia Craft Cooperation. The price is composed of the value of silver, the labor costs of about 20-100 US$ per piece (depending on the size and the associated work).
Contact for orders:
- CCC office Phnom Penh, Mr. Kimyonn, phone / Telegram +855 11 984 879 (English, Khmer language)
- Mr. Nuon Tuol: silversmith in Kampong Luong, phone / Telegram ´+855 17 875 540 (Khmer language only)
Location of silversmith village of Kampong Luong commune