The photograph, depicting the outskirts of Phnom Penh after heavy bombardment by the Khmer Rouge in 1974, was taken by French photojournalist Christine Spengler. Supplied
Jacques Pellet, ambassador of France to Cambodia, has donated a historically significant photograph taken 50 years ago in Phnom Penh by renowned French photojournalist Christine Spengler to the Preah Srey Içanavarman Museum of Economy and Money (SOSORO).
A handover ceremony, which took place at the museum on December 9, was graced by Jacques Pellet, ambassador of France to Cambodia, and Chea Serey, governor of the National Bank of Cambodia.
“The photograph, depicting the outskirts of Phnom Penh after heavy bombardment by the Khmer Rouge in 1974, is a poignant reminder of Cambodia’s tumultuous history and resilience,” according to SOSORO.
Christine Spengler’s powerful work is will be on display at a temporary exhibition at the museum until December 28, as part of the Photo Phnom Penh Festival, which is celebrating its 15th edition this year.
“Christine Spengler’s photography is globally recognised for capturing moments of profound human experience,” said SOSORO.
The image, set against a backdrop of destruction and despair, reflects the profound human cost of war.
The charred remains of structures, the lifeless landscape and the scattered silhouettes of people navigating the wreckage symbolise resilience amidst devastation.
From left to right, Sovan Philong, President of the Photo Phnom Penh Festival, Fanny Pagès, Deputy Director of the French Institute of Cambodia, Jacques Pellet, Ambassador of France to Cambodia, Chea Serey, Governor of the National Bank of Cambodia and Blaise Kilian, Co-Director of the SOSORO Museum. Supplied
Spengler’s ability to encapsulate both the stark reality of conflict and the enduring spirit of the survivors makes this photograph a powerful testament to human endurance in the face of unimaginable hardship.
From conflicts spanning Cambodia, Vietnam, Chad, Ireland, Lebanon or Iraq since the 1970s, she constantly avoided sensationalism, choosing instead to “focus on survivors rather than on the deceased”.
Blaise Kilian, co-director of the SOSORO Museum, expressed his appreciation to the French embassy for the donation.
“As a repository of historical and economic knowledge, the SOSORO Museum welcomes the addition of this historical archive to its collection. We are glad to put it on display for the general public to view as part of the 2024 Photo Phnom Penh Festival,” he said.
The donation ceremony also served to underline SOSORO's mission of fostering historical understanding and cultural education, he explained.
