The exhibition highlights the symbolic role that textiles play in Cambodian costume, ceremonies and religion.
The Khmer people share a culture that dates over 1000 years, but much of it was destroyed in the 1970’s by the brutal tyrant Pol Pot. Since his arrest in 1997, and subsequent death a year later, the Khmer people have been restoring their traditional customs, including silk weaving.
Buddhism is at the heart of the Cambodian culture, and has a strong presence in many aspects of silk making. One of the most visually stunning pieces is a pidan; a specially commissioned silk hanging that depicts the story of Buddha’s life, including his birth (his mother was said to have been impregnated by an elephant) and his path to enlightenment.
Also on show are various ceremonial costumes. A simple set of cotton monk’s robes looks suitably bare when compared to the decadent wedding garments for a bride and groom, which are adorned with gold embroidery and sequins, and complemented by elaborate gold jewellery. Red thread wristbands complete the look - in Khmer weddings, this symbolises tying the knot.
A spectacular navy blue and gold costume worn by a dancer representing the character Rama, a great king of ancient India, in the age-old Hindu tale of Ramayana, is also worth a look.
The exhibition includes a history of silk making too, with real silk worms, raw silk skeins from the Phnom Serok village in Cambodia, and a video explaining the process. The worms, which are a vibrant gold colour, are fed mulberry leaves, before being transferred to bundles of twigs, and then spun, to produce the silk.
Although the Horniman Museum houses over 6,500 different textiles, it is doubtful whether any could be more beautiful or exquisitely made than those on show today. The work is a credit to the Khmer people, who, with any luck, will be able to preserve their culture for 1000 years more.
 |  | The Buddhist Peace Pagoda in Battersea Park. Photo: K Smith |
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Where next in Buddhist London?
The Battersea Park Peace Pagoda was built by Buddhist monks and nuns in 1985, and is open whenever the park is.
The very beautiful Buddhapadipa Thai Buddhist Temple is tucked away close to Wimbledon Common. It is the only traditional Thai Buddhist temple anywhere in Europe. It has beautiful gardens, and welcomes respectful visitors whether or not you are a Buddhist.
The Buddhist Society has a large library of Buddhist related literature that anyone can consult free of charge.
There are many Buddhist statues and other objects at the Victoria and Albert Museum and the British Museum
