Angkor: Through the Eyes of a Chinese Diplomat
Historical Context
In the waning years of the 13th century, a group of Chinese diplomats embarked on a diplomatic mission to Angkor, the once-glorious capital of the Khmer Empire. Among them was Zhou Daguan, whose keen observations provide a rare glimpse into the daily life and customs of the Khmer people.
Zhou Daguan’s Observations
Khmer Homes and Architecture
Zhou Daguan noted that the dwellings of the Khmer elite differed significantly from those of the common folk. The homes of princes and officials boasted distinct layouts and dimensions, with outlying buildings thatched and only the family temple and main apartment covered in tiles. The size of the houses reflected the official rank of the occupant.
The King’s Wardrobe
The Khmer king’s wardrobe exuded opulence. Only he was permitted to wear cloth adorned with an all-over floral design. Around his neck, he wore an impressive three pounds of large pearls. Gold bracelets and rings adorned his wrists, ankles, and fingers, each set with shimmering cat’s eyes. When he ventured out, he carried a golden sword of state in his hand, a symbol of his authority.
Khmer Women
Zhou Daguan observed that Khmer women aged prematurely, likely due to early marriage and childbirth. By the age of 20 or 30, they resembled Chinese women in their 40s or 50s.
Khmer Language
The Khmer possessed their own distinct language, which differed from the tongues spoken by the neighboring Champa and Siam peoples.
Khmer Justice System
Zhou Daguan encountered a curious method of justice employed by the Khmer. In cases of dispute, the accused parties were confined to small stone towers in front of the royal palace. The family members of each accused kept watch for one or two days, or even longer. Upon their release, the guilty party would invariably fall ill, while the innocent remained healthy. This phenomenon was attributed to “celestial judgment,” the supernatural power of the Khmer god.
Sickness and Healthcare
Dysentery claimed the lives of eight to nine out of ten Khmer people. Medicines were available in the markets but differed significantly from those used in China. Zhou Daguan noted the presence of sorcerers who practiced questionable arts on the sick.
Influence of Zhou Daguan’s Observations
Zhou Daguan’s written account, titled “The Customs of Cambodia,” remains the sole surviving written record of Khmer daily life from the 13th century. Translated into French in 1902 and English in later years, his observations have provided invaluable insights into the culture and society of Angkor.
Additional Long-Tail Keyword Content
- Khmer Daily Life: Zhou Daguan’s observations shed light on various aspects of Khmer daily life, including their homes, clothing, food, and customs.
- Royal Court and Nobility: The Khmer king and his court enjoyed a luxurious lifestyle, with elaborate ceremonies and opulent palaces.
- Khmer Spirituality and Beliefs: The Khmer possessed a deep-rooted belief in supernatural forces, as evidenced by their practice of “celestial judgment.”
- Angkor’s Decline: By the time of Zhou Daguan’s visit, Angkor was in decline but still exhibited remnants of its former glory. The city’s temples and monuments continue to captivate visitors today.