This is an inscribed stela make of schist. It was discovered in Tuol Traperng Samraong in Phleung Chheh Roteh Khang Lech in Dangkao district, Phnom Penh. Later it was transferred to enter into the collection of the National Museum of Cambodia in 2003. Inscription experts have determined that this stela was inscribed in the year 726 CE of the Chenla period, prior to the Angkorian era.
This object was found in 2003. It represents a significant discovery considering the fact that very few inscribed stones existed in the 8th century, pre-Angkorian period. Just like any inscriptions stone it’s provides useful information concerning ancient history.
This piece has an inscription in two languages, ancient Khmer and Sanskrit.
Through the short ancient Khmer inscription there is an inscription of the ceremony to erect a Vishnu statue name Treiphou Vorneswara, which mean the master of the three worlds.
The date for this event is given as December 26, 726 CE. The inscription also speaks of a statue to pay homage to Vishnu created by three men who were siblings. Along with the statue, they also dedicated to Vishnu, the coconut and areca palm plantations, rice land, five male and eleven female servants, and there 22 children and six grandchildren. The Sanskrit script also speaks of the astrological timing for the event to take place.