Sovanna Phum Art Association is a shadow puppet theatre company based in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Sovanna Phum, which means ‘Golden Village’ in Khmer, was founded in 1993 by self-taught puppet maker Mann Kosal and French circus performer Delphine Kasam. The group performs two forms of traditional shadow puppetry, Sbek Thom and Sbek Touch. They also conduct regular training and education programmes on shadow puppet making and performing.
This puppet depicts the character Angkut, a monkey commander who is the son of Peali (the dead monkey king) and Mondulkiri (Queen of Krong Reap). He is usually depicted in action during combat, as seen here, carrying a long sword. One characteristic distinct to Angkut is his large snout, as well as an intricate, towering mokot or carved traditional Cambodian headwear on top of his head. He is standing on top of a mythical dragon-like figure, ready to attack his enemies in battle.
