Kbach

Kbach (Khmer: ក្បាច់) are traditional decorative elements of Cambodian architecture. While 'kbach' is a term that can be used to refer to any sort of art-form style in the Khmer language, such as a gesture in Khmer classical dance, the term kbach rachana specifically refers to decorative ornament motifs. Kbach are also used in decorating of Cambodian silver crafts, furniture, regalia, murals, pottery, ceramics, stone carving etc.

Generally all Kbachs shapes refer to natural elements. Here are some examples of the most famous ones:

These standard basic shapes are internally divided into more complex ornaments using one of the styles of division characteristic for a specific school of kbach.

As kbach is an oral tradition, passed down through learning and making, there is considerable variety of ways to create an undisputed system of kbach schools. The four major schools recognized by contemporary kbach artists are: kbach angkor, kbach phñi tes, kbach phñi voa and kbach phñi phleung.

References

• Chan Vitharin, Preap Chanmara - Kbach (A study of Khmer ornament), February 2005, Reyum Publishing, ISBN 1-58886-076-0


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