The Cambodian Khmer dynasty is largely believed to have existed between 802 and 1432. Though there is no clear understanding as to why the empire collapsed, close proximity to its Thai enemies (Sukothai in particular) and the constant invasion of the Thais is considered a primary reason. Over-forestation is also considered a factored leaving the area somewhat unhabitable.

The area was largely undiscovered for centuries, receiving little interest from the west until French naturaralist Henri Mouhot reported his visit with vivid drawings in 1864. Though several reports from Dutch explorers were prepared in the 17th century, they were ignored (in part because a few reported the site in India instead of Indochina).

The Angkor temples are a treasure. If you have visited my Cambodia gallery, you will have seen several sub-galleries dedicated to them. The area is much more than "Angkor Wat", the most famous and largest of the temples. Several, such as Ta Prohm, are extraordinary and left largely untouched after all these centuries.

Several of my friends have commented that the temples would lend themselves well to black and white presentations. Though I have only dabbled in black and white photography in the past, I thought I would give it a try with a focus on the temples overtaken by the jungle. Some of the temples, Ta Prohm as an example, have an erie sensation about them. This tends to be exascerbated through black and white. As Linda said "the place is freaky enough in colour - you don't need to make black and white versions". True - colour is limited and the images are dominated by texture, shape and form.

Welcome to the forgotten Khmer dynasty ... I hope you enjoy this gallery and appreciate any feedback you are willing to provide.