Among the antique Khmer ikat fabrics in my beloved collection, this piece holds special memories.

 

About 20 years ago, I visited an antique shop near the National Museum in Phnom Penh, which had an astonishing collection of Cambodian old textiles. The prices were high, so purchasing was not easy, but I visited the shop for research and was shown the fabrics.

 

Behind the front display case was a back room with a large wooden case holding special Khmer ikat masterpieces. My attention was caught by a piece of cloth, dark and dirty like a rag used for cleaning the glass. On closer inspection, I realized it was ikat. The owner, focused on selling complete pieces, showed no interest in such a small scrap, and offered it to me if I wanted it.

 

I took it home, washed it, and was amazed once again. To me, this is a true masterpiece of Khmer ikat. I am grateful for this encounter and the connection it brought.