A visitor views photos depicting King Sisowath’s journey to France in 1906, put up for exhibition at SOSORO - Preah Srey ICANAVRMAN Museum, in Phnom Penh. PHOTO SUPPLIED
Stepping into the hallowed halls of the “SOSORO – Preah Srey ICANAVRMAN Museum”, visitors are invited on an enthralling journey – an expedition into the life of King Sisowath and his momentous sojourn to France in 1906. Titled The Journey of King Sisowath in France in 1906: A Mutual Revelation, this temporary exhibition is reaching its close, leaving just three weeks to seize this rare opportunity.
Unravelling the captivating tale of this pivotal historical period, the exhibition presents an extraordinary chance for the curious public and history aficionados alike. Blaise Kilian, SOSORO Museum’s co-director, underscores the profundity of King Sisowath’s historic European visit.
“In essence, it led to the surfacing of the kingdom and its vibrant culture on the international stage, especially in the West, as King Sisowath was the inaugural Khmer ruler to tread on European soil,” he states.
The exhibition’s primary objective is to shed light on the diplomatic and cultural repercussions of King Sisowath’s journey, alongside highlighting the fascination that the Cambodian King and his entourage stirred amongst the French public and elites.
The museum houses five engrossing documentaries that delve into the historical journey of King Sisowath. Narrated by the esteemed scholar, Professor Olivier de Bernon from the Ecole française d’Extrême-Orient (EFEO), these films provide comprehensive analyses of the journey’s diverse facets.
The initial documentary examines the risks, duration, cost, and the sheer significance of such an extensive journey, which was beyond the comprehension of many Cambodians at the time. Offering a distinctive outlook on King Sisowath’s trials and tribulations, the film paints a vivid picture.
The second film hones in on King Sisowath’s charismatic allure, his command over the French elites, his impact on crowds, and his exceptional ability to navigate protocol. The exhibition unravels the fascinating tale of the lasting impression the Cambodian King left on French society.
Yet another film shines a light on the Royal Ballet’s debut appearances outside of Cambodia, causing a cultural stir amongst the French public. “Behold the profound cultural interchange between Cambodia and France, as the Royal Ballet unveiled its enchanting performances to an alien audience, etching a permanent imprint on the French artistic landscape,” shared Dorian Debals, the Communications Manager at SOSORO Museum.
Visitors are further treated to a short film underscoring the contrast and continuity between King Norodom and King Sisowath, casting a spotlight on the abundant history and evolution of Cambodia’s monarchy.
In complement to the immersive films, the exhibition showcases a trove of 69 artefacts, inclusive of original postcards, photographs, news articles, and commemorative coins. “These priceless pieces forge palpable links to the historical period, bestowing upon visitors a tactile bond to the events and figures involved,” Debals disclosed to The Post.
Most of these artefacts are sourced from the SOSORO Museum’s collections, complemented by donations from the Krousar Thmey Foundation and items on loan from Professor Olivier de Bernon. Offering free admission, the exhibition provides an unrivalled opportunity for all to plunge into this extraordinary historical era.
As the clock ticks towards the exhibition’s finale, the SOSORO Museum guarantees an opportunity for everyone to explore and appreciate this unique presentation. The exhibition, which has been extended once due to popular demand, will draw to a close on July 31.
The SOSORO Museum, hailed as Phnom Penh’s most interactive museum, delivers a unique fusion of digital displays and ancient artefacts within a state-of-the-art museum. For further details about the museum and its exhibits, please visit their website at sosoro.nbc.gov.kh or follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
So, seize this chance to immerse yourself in King Sisowath’s journey and unravel the intricate threads of the political and cultural exchange between Cambodia and France during his transformative visit in 1906.
Visit the SOSORO Museum, located at #19 on Preah Moha Ksatreiyani Kossamak Avenue (St 106), and become a part of this incredible exploration of history.
