Kbach

"Kbach" (Khmer: ក្បាច់) are decorative elements of Cambodian architecture. While 'kbach' is a term that can be used to refer to any sort of art-form style in the Khmer language, such as a gesture in Khmer classical dance, the term "kbach rachana" specifically refers to decorative motifs. "Kbach" are also used in decorating of Cambodian silver crafts, furniture, regalia, murals,​ and etc.

Generally the art of "kbach" is based on a number of basic shapes (the frontal lotus petal shape, the "Ficus religiosa" leaf shape, the mythical goose tail shape, the flame shape, etc.). These standard basic shapes are internally divided into more complex ornaments using one of the styles of division characteristic for a specific school of "kbach".

As "kbach" is an oral tradition, passed down through learning and making, there is considerable variety of ways to create an undesputed system of "kbach" schools. The four major schools recognized by contemporary "kbach" artists are: "kbach angkor", "kbach phñi tes", "kbach phñi voa" and "kbach phñi phleung".

*"kbach angkor" (ក្បាច់​អង្គរ) - the 'Angkorian style'; a vaguely defined style, though the common elements include snail-like curls called "kbach hien" (snails), "kbach trabak chuk" (lotus petals), and etc.
*"kbach phñi tes" (ក្បាច់​ភ្ញីទេស) - the 'exotic intertwining style'; a style which utilizes poppy flowers, buds, leaves, and pods, it somewhat resembles the acanthus of Western ornatmention
*"kbach phñi voal" (ក្បាច់ភ្ញីវល្ល) - the 'intertwining vine style' with animal heads and intertwining vines protruding from their mouths
*"kbach phñi phleung" (ក្បាច់​ភ្ញី​ភ្លើង) - the 'intertwining flame style' which uses abstract flames in the shape of hamsa tails in an intertwining form

References

• Chan Vitharin, Preap Chanmara - "Kbach (A study of Khmer ornament)", February 2005, Reyum Publishing, ISBN 1-58886-076-0