Cham Sculpture was worked in a variety of materials,principally sandstone, but also gold, silver and bronze, and primarily illustrated themes from Indian mythology. The kingdom was gradually eroded during the 15th century by the inexorable descent of the people towards the south ("Nam Tien")from their original base in the Red River region. The author explores, describes and comments on the various styles of Cham sculpure, drawing on a rich and as yet largely unpublished iconographic vein.
In the 5th century, the Champa kingdom held sway over a large area of today's Vietnam. Several magnificent structures still testify to their former presence in the Nha Trang region. Cham Sculpture was worked in a variety of materials,principally sandstone, but also gold, silver and bronze, and primarily illustrated themes from Indian mythology. The kingdom was gradually eroded during the 15th century by the inexorable descent of the people towards the south ("Nam Tien")from their original base in the Red River region. The author explores, describes and comments on the various styles of Cham sculpure, drawing on a rich and as yet largely unpublished iconographic vein.
Introduction
The History of Champa
Cham Architecture
Gods and their representation
Styles and the dating of sculptures
Conclusion
Glossary
Brief Chronology of Champa
Bibliography
List of illustrations