Earth in Flower

"Earth in Flower," a 2008 book by University of Hawaii researcher Paul Cravath, is a historical analysis of Khmer classical dance, also known as the Royal Ballet of Cambodia. Over centuries, the female performers held numerous roles, including living goddesses, priestesses, queens, concubines, hostages, and diplomats. Cravath's research began during Cambodia's turbulent Lon Nol regime in the 1970s, when he gained rare access to the royal dancers, their teachers, theater, and archives. His decade-long study included primary research in Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, and the United States. After completing his doctoral thesis, the work remained obscure until its publication as a book in 2005, which included additional photos, graphics, and supplementary information. Cravath's research was conducted between January and April 1975, just before the Khmer Rouge takeover of Phnom Penh on April 15, 1975. He fled with his research intact, as most of Cambodia's dancers and cultural archives were later destroyed during the Khmer Rouge regime, which killed approximately 90% of the country's dancers and teachers. The book features Jean Despujols' artwork, depicting Saem, a dancer from the 1930s who became a foster child of Princess Wongat Say Sangvann after her exceptional skill. The cover image shows Saem on the Rainbow Bridge at Angkor Wat, holding her right hand in a classic flower gesture. "Earth in Flower" has been recognized in academic circles, with numerous books and articles citing its contributions to the understanding of Khmer dance and culture. The book's publication aimed to preserve Cambodia's cultural heritage and inspire future ...