The textiles in the collection are ethnographic materials, which means that they are woven in the villages for their own private consumption. At the village level, textiles represent wealth. A wealth provided by women. On her traditional handloom, a woman weaves for herself and her family. Some, though initially functioning as clothing items, also incorporate what is referred to as "ethnic signature", a signature that places the wearer in a particular ethnic group from which he draws a strong identity. The textile also pinpoints that person to a particular geographical location. Some textiles are utilitarian objects such as blankets, mattress covers, and baby wrappers. Others are given ceremonial roles, whether in a Buddhist or animistic context.

All textiles are a subtle and very personal form of art that convey hidden messages in an unspoken language, the language of textiles.

Cambodia

History of the Collection