A forgotten treasure of Cambodian heritage has resurfaced in Phnom Penh, as SOSORO Museum unveils a striking new exhibition reviving the long-lost murals of the Silver Pagoda. Titled Into the Light: The Retrieved Paintings of Phnom Penh’s Silver Pagoda, the show opened on 4 October with a ceremony led by Chea Serey, Governor of the National Bank of Cambodia, and attended by royals, diplomats and cultural leaders.
The early 20th-century murals, once adorning the sanctuary walls of the revered pagoda, vanished during restoration works in the 1960s. Their rediscovery came through fragile glass-plate negatives—painstakingly analysed to reveal vivid photographic records of the original artworks. These images now form the heart of the exhibition, offering a rare glimpse into Khmer artistry and Buddhist devotion.
Visitors are invited to explore jātaka scenes—stories from the Buddha’s past lives—alongside historical artefacts and rare manuscripts. A standout feature is the interactive display, allowing guests to digitally project and examine the negatives in detail, showcasing the precision of early photographic techniques.
Princess Norodom Marie, custodian of the glass plates, donated them to SOSORO for the exhibition. French scholar Professor Olivier de Bernon, serving as scientific curator, played a key role in restoring the murals’ legacy.
The exhibition also caters to younger audiences, with a specially designed booklet guiding children through the stories and symbolism behind the paintings. It’s a thoughtful touch that bridges generations and deepens public engagement with Cambodia’s cultural past.
Into the Light runs for five months, with free entry from Tuesday to Sunday, 9am to 6pm. For those in Phnom Penh or passing through, it’s a rare chance to witness a chapter of history once thought lost—now brought vividly back to life.
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