Ancient Art & Glamorous Gift
Leatherworking has been an important part of the Khmer identity for thousands of years. Local artisans and craftsmen have been working leather since ancient times, developing a complex and effective methodology to shape and colour the material to reflect their artistic sensibilities.
The most iconic expression of Cambodian leatherworking is found in the traditional puppets used for sbek thom, or shadow puppetry. Sbek thom theatre is one of the country’s oldest performing arts, dating back to Angkorian times. Its importance was acknowledged in 2005, when the craft was proclaimed a Unesco Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.
The traditional method of leather crafting, developed over thousands of years, is a long and tenuous process that starts with the hide being stretched across the floor and smothered with tint for coloration. After three to four days of tanning under the sun, the skin is ready to be worked on. The chiseling tools are made out of recycled iron smelted with fire. First, the artist draws his design over a piece of paper, which he lays over the skin. Following the lines drawn on the paper, the craftsman slowly cuts his design into the hide until the puppet is finished and ready to be used as part of a play.
Nowadays, a handful of associations and schools across the country are passing on this leather crafting technique to the newer generations. In Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and other Cambodian cities, associations like Sovanna Phum and Kok Thlok are helping preserve and revive this century-old tradition by training children and young adults in the intricacies of the artform.
Across Phnom Penh, a number of leather artisans have set up shops to put their skills to work. Their repertoire includes shoes, boots, belts, handbags and wallets. Phnom Penh boasts a number of small, family-run shoe stores where the customer can buy made-to-measure, handcrafted shoes. Clients can decide the design and materials to be used. The ring of leather samples is large, and customers can choose from, among others, faux crocodile, patent, sparkled and suede. For women, there are a plethora of heels to choose from, such as kitten, wedge, stiletto and flats.
In Phnom Penh you are likely to run into stores that work with cow skin. In Siem Reap, on the other hand, you will encounter numerous outlets for crocodile leather. The city has a number of crocodile farms, and its crocodile-skin products are famous amongst tourists. Some of the most common and popular items include wallets, belts and boots.
During your visit to the Kingdom, pick up a shadow puppet, a pair of handmade leather shoes, or a decorative leatherwork to bring back home, or to give out as a souvenir. Cambodian leatherworks do not only make up beautiful and original gifts; they are also an essential part of Khmer culture.
