Centuries ago, a brilliant civilization flourished in the valleys and plains of what is now Cambodia. The Khmer culture created a remarkable artistic legacy, boldly expressive in form yet delicate in its sensibility. The most famous Khmer monument is the vast temple complex at Angkor Wat, but works in bronze are equally remarkable for their power. The intrinsic beauty of this palanquin collar almost makes us forget that it originally served a practical function. A palanquin is a covered traveling litter used by oriental nobility. A collar like this was the central ornament of the carrying pole and supported the draped covering. Only the highest classes were permitted palanquin fittings of bronze, and this stunning piece, shimmering with gilt overlay, was no doubt worthy of royalty. Graceful and powerful at once, it evokes the wealth and splendor of a vanished world.