Although Amethyst and Sapphire visited Dy Proeung’s modest home to view his hand crafted miniatures of Angkor before visiting the Archeological Park, they are only sharing this experience now so that their readers can better appreciate the work of this very gifted Master craftmen, Dy Proeung. Click on this link to watch this Youtube video taken a few years ago.
While browsing through tourist guide books, Richard came across an article on a miniature Angkor Wat. When checking on google maps he discovered that these miniature sculptures of these ancient temples were situated close to their guesthouse and definitely worth a visit.
They walked down Wat Bo Street, following google maps and could not miss the entrance to Dy Proeung’s front garden as the pavement outside was lined with sandstone sculptures, mosaics and lush green plants in ornate pots.
They entered through the open gate and were approached by an old but sprightly man with grey hair and the gentlest blue eyes. Little did they know that this was the artist responsible for these intricate hand carved replicas in sandstone.
Just inside the gate they were faced with a full-size replica of one of the temple statues towering impressively over them them.
He led them further into the garden and started chatting to them in broken English about how he had over the years carved out these replicas of the various temples. They were astounded when they realized that this old and slightly build man was responsible for hand crafting the magnificent miniature works of art which are exact copies of the various temples.
The photographs below are an indication of how impressive each sculpture is, made on a precise scale in comparison with the original temples. Ankor Wat, Preah Ko, Bakong, Banteay Srei, rising a metre off the ground and exactly replicating the actual life size temples. These are complete with the corncob towers, intricate carvings and symmetrical galleries providing one with a glimpse of how they might once have looked.
Dy Proeung proudly told us that he had studied in Phnom Penh learning English, French and architecture. Since a young age he had always admired the temples and was part of the restoration team for a number of years. In 1984 he completed the first miniature temple, Angkor Wat, after 3 years of preparation and planning and 1 year to build. He used only one cutting tool and would create molds over and over again for the towers.
Soon the other temples followed. He said that he was very lucky and one of the few craftsmen that had survived the Pol Pot Regime, as many artists did not survive. For more information on this tragic and shocking period in Cambodia’s history click here and here.
His received recognition for his work in 1995 when he received an award from the former King of Cambodia, Norodom Sihanouk. He proudly takes out photographs of himself at this ceremony. He very humbly yet proudly talks about his achievements. One gets the feeling that the re-creation of Angkor Wat and the other temples has a deep meaning for this man and gives his life purpose.
And how ironic is it that for all the years he dedicated, working on the restoration of this very temple, that his miniatures, which are now his source of income, are actually giving back to him.
Mr. Proeung also proudly showed them the original draft drawings of Angkor Wat, which he apparently hid during the Pol Pot regime. He posed with pride when they asked if they could take photographs of him with these amazing replicas that he so painstakingly crafted by hand.
It was sad to see his humble home which seemed so out of place among these spectacular creations. One could not help but wonder what the 1.50$ entrance fee per person was being used for, as this humble and gentle man of 81 years is living in a very basic dwelling. (In the short 30 min tour there were 4 other visitors each paying 1.50$). He however seems quite happy and content with showing visitors around his replica wonderland which he is so proud of. This possibly gives his life meaning and the appreciation and admiration shown for his work makes it all worthwhile.
He walked them personally out into the street and stood for a while on the pavement waving them good bye, lost and alone in his replica world waiting for the next visitor with whom he could share his life’s passion.
Although they were in awe of such artistry they felt a sadness for the artist and were once again reminded to make the most of every moment of every day as we will all grow old and not all of us have such a legacy to leave behind by which we will be remembered.
Wow man, this was in interesting read and well written, from the heart. I never even knew this place existed, so your town is full of surprises. Keep up this meaningful blog, I love it.
Thank you Nico, for taking the time to read our blog and for commenting. We are so glad you are enjoying it.