Lakhon Khol Khmer Mask Tee


Lakhon Khol Khmer Mask Tee
100% combed ring-spun cotton
Machine wash cold
Tumble dry low
Do not iron on image
MADE IN CAMBODIA
This design is inspired by our visit to Phnom Penh in 2019, one of many journey that opened our eyes to the rich, living heritage of our people. As we explored the city, we had the privilege of witnessing the powerful work of “Cambodia Living Arts,” an organization dedicated to preserving the soul of Khmer culture through Art and Dance.
One of the most unforgettable moments was experiencing a performance of Lakhon Khol, the Khmer Masked Theatre. This art form, rooted in centuries of tradition, is traditionally performed during Khmer New Year (April 13-15) or during sacred ceremonies to honor spirits, call for rain, or protect villages from disease and disaster. The stories performed are drawn from the Reamker, but only the episodes imbued with hope and fortune are chosen for the stage. The Reamker, a timeless epic, blends the everyday lives of the villagers with the supernatural, and it is said that any scene involving death or separation is avoided, as it is believed to bring misfortune.
Seeing this for ourselves, we felt an overwhelming connection to our culture, a deep understanding of the rituals and beliefs that have shaped our history and still guide us today.