Wmf Publication

Abstract:

Describes the development of a conservation master plan for the temple complex of Preah Khan in Angkor, Cambodia. Written after a March 1991 field mission of World Monuments Fund to Preah Khan, and revised after a subsequent field mission in the following year, this report introduces the rationale for the conservation of Preah Khan as an exposed architectural ruin. This is supported by a brief conservation philosophy specifying the appropriate character of conservation interventions in accordance with this rationale. The report contains detailed information on the history of the Preah Khan temple complex, including its religious and architectural significance. A chronology of conservation interventions in the 20th century is also given. The report includes a description of the first steps necessary for the initiation of the conservation master plan, including inventory, site investigations, and training, and also an index of architectural terms and extensive bibliography. The 12th century temple complex of Preah Khan in Angkor, Cambodia is one of the most significant remains of the ancient Khmer civilization. This is one of a series of reports charting the evolution of the conservation efforts of World Monuments Fund at Preah Khan. Issued concurrently with “Report I: Considerations for the Conservation and Presentation of the Historic City of Angkor” and “Preah Khan Report III: Conservation Plan,” for which this report serves as a basis.

Full Text PDF