Sot silk weaving has been an important part of Cambodia's cultural past. It is documented that people in Takéo Province have woven silk since the Funan era; written records, bas-reliefs and the report of the Chinese emissary Zhou Daguan show that looms have been used to weave sompots since ancient times. Women learned to apply highly complex methods and intricate patterns. The hol or ikat method involves dyeing patterns on silk before it is woven. A method unique to Cambodian weavers is the uneven twill technique. Although it is unclear why they adopted such an unusual method, the ancient bas-reliefs provide a detailed look at fabric patterns and pleats. Silk-woven pieces are used to decorate temples; heirloom pieces are worn at weddings and funerals.
