The restored Shiva of Koh Ker, a scientific challenge carried by the EFEO

A fragmented work facing rigorous scientific methodology

When the EFEO teams intervened at the Koh Ker site, the statue was reduced to thousands of scattered fragments. More than 10,000 pieces were collected, with about 2,750 identified and documented sculptural elements.

Given this extreme state of fragmentation, the EFEO embarked on a thorough preparatory phase of work between 2012 and 2019. The goal was clear: to transform a set of unstable remains into a structured scientific corpus.

“These investigations transformed thousands of vulnerable fragments into a documented and usable corpus,” highlights the EFEO.

EFEO, a pillar of scientific coordination

EFEO did not limit itself to intervening in the field. It provided scientific direction to the project by structuring the data, coordinating partners, and defining methodological choices.

Under the direction of Éric Bourdonneau, the institution set up a comprehensive database integrating surveys, photographs, and digital reconstructions. This work identified over 700 connections between fragments, paving the way for a partial reconstruction of the work.

This coordination role also extended to the establishment of a scientific and technical committee tasked with validating the project’s orientations.

The decisive contribution of digital technologies

One of EFEO’s major contributions was in integrating digital tools into the restoration process.

Each fragment was digitized in three dimensions, allowing for virtual testing of assemblies. This approach minimized physical manipulations and verified hypotheses before any intervention.

Thanks to these analyses, between 70 and 75% of the torso’s surface could be repositioned, making the operation technically feasible.

Masterful engineering for stability

The operational phase, conducted from 2019 at Angkor Conservation, relied on precise technical choices.

EFEO oversaw the design of an internal metal structure organized around a central mast anchored in a steel base. This device ensures the stability of the whole while remaining discreet.

The fragments are consolidated using metal rods and assembled with suitable mortars, composed notably of sandstone powder and lime. Specific work is done on integrating the colors to preserve the visual coherence of the whole.

An ethical approach claimed

EFEO adopted a clear line: to intervene without artificially reconstructing the work.

Restorations were only carried out when the data was sufficiently reliable. Otherwise, gaps were preserved to make visible the transformations and destructions suffered over time.

“The objective is to restore the readability and monumentality of the work while leaving visible the traces of its history.”

Transmission, means, and mobilization

Beyond restoration, EFEO situates its action within a logic of transmission.

Over twenty trainee restorers participated in the project through five dedicated sessions on sculpture conservation. This educational dimension contributes to enhancing local skills and ensuring the sustainability of know-how.

The project cost approximately 480,000 euros, mobilized with the support of international partners.

Under EFEO’s coordination, 11 different trades were involved, bringing together restorers, archaeologists, engineers, historians, conservators, and geologists. The restoration required 600 working days, in addition to 215 days dedicated to the structure’s design.

This diversity of skills illustrates the extent of the work coordinated by the institution.

An intervention with long-lasting impact

Through this project, the EFEO reaffirms its historical role in studying, preserving, and transmitting heritage in Southeast Asia.

The restoration of the Shiva of Koh Ker thus continues a legacy: that of an ancient scientific presence, combining field research, methodological innovation, and cooperation with Cambodian institutions.