Cambodia sends centuries-old famous reclining Vishnu statue for study, restoration in France

Culture minister Phoeung Sackona prays before the statue as it is prepared for its long journey to France. -Culture Ministry

PHNOM PENH: Cambodia on Tuesday (May 7) held a blessing ceremony to mark the departure for France of a large bronze statue of the famous reclining Vishnu along with 39 fragments.

Held at the National Museum of Cambodia in Phnom Penh, the ceremony took place in the presence of Cambodia's Minister of Culture and Fine Arts Phoeurng Sackona.