Khmer Sandstone Buddha Head Fragment | Angkor Period | Cambodia | Circa 12th Century
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Khmer Sandstone Buddha Head Fragment | Angkor Period | Cambodia | Circa 12th Century
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: Khmer Empire, Cambodia
Material: Sandstone
Period: 12th Century (Angkor Period)
Description
A finely carved sandstone head, likely representing a deity or Buddha from the Khmer Empire during the Angkor period. The serene facial expression, with softly curved lips, downcast eyes, and harmonious proportions, reflects the artistic refinement and spiritual depth of Angkorian sculpture. Originally part of a larger statue enshrined in a temple, the head would have served both devotional and architectural purposes within the sacred complexes of Angkor.
Features
- Carved from fine sandstone typical of Khmer temple statuary
- Serene facial expression with balanced proportions and meditative calm
- Stylized dotted hair pattern still visible in places
- Mounted on a custom wooden display base for stability and presentation
- Exemplifies the refined aesthetics of Khmer religious art
Cultural Significance
Khmer sculpture from the Angkor period represents one of the pinnacles of Southeast Asian art. Temple statuary such as this was considered a living embodiment of divine presence, installed in sacred spaces like Angkor Wat and Bayon. The blending of Buddhist and Hindu elements in Khmer art reflects the dynamic spiritual environment of the 12th century, where monumental artistry met devotional purpose.
Condition
Fragmentary, with the head separated from its original body. Surface weathering, minor abrasions, and chipping consistent with centuries of burial and exposure. Despite these losses, the features remain intact and clearly defined, preserving its spiritual gravitas and historical resonance.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 11.5 in
Age (Approximate)
825–925 years old
Provenance
By repute, acquired from the Brimfield Antique Market in Massachusetts, USA, during the 1980s. Subsequently offered by Waddington’s in Asian Art, August 21, 2025, Lot 315. Later acquired by a private collector in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Learn More
Explore the sculpture of the Angkor period through research on The Statuary of Angkor
View a comparable Khmer sandstone fragment in our Khmer Empire Devotional Fragment 12th Century
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Khmer Empire, Cambodia
Material: Sandstone
Period: 12th Century (Angkor Period)
Description
A finely carved sandstone head, likely representing a deity or Buddha from the Khmer Empire during the Angkor period. The serene facial expression, with softly curved lips, downcast eyes, and harmonious proportions, reflects the artistic refinement and spiritual depth of Angkorian sculpture. Originally part of a larger statue enshrined in a temple, the head would have served both devotional and architectural purposes within the sacred complexes of Angkor.
Features
- Carved from fine sandstone typical of Khmer temple statuary
- Serene facial expression with balanced proportions and meditative calm
- Stylized dotted hair pattern still visible in places
- Mounted on a custom wooden display base for stability and presentation
- Exemplifies the refined aesthetics of Khmer religious art
Cultural Significance
Khmer sculpture from the Angkor period represents one of the pinnacles of Southeast Asian art. Temple statuary such as this was considered a living embodiment of divine presence, installed in sacred spaces like Angkor Wat and Bayon. The blending of Buddhist and Hindu elements in Khmer art reflects the dynamic spiritual environment of the 12th century, where monumental artistry met devotional purpose.
Condition
Fragmentary, with the head separated from its original body. Surface weathering, minor abrasions, and chipping consistent with centuries of burial and exposure. Despite these losses, the features remain intact and clearly defined, preserving its spiritual gravitas and historical resonance.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 11.5 in
Age (Approximate)
825–925 years old
Provenance
By repute, acquired from the Brimfield Antique Market in Massachusetts, USA, during the 1980s. Subsequently offered by Waddington’s in Asian Art, August 21, 2025, Lot 315. Later acquired by a private collector in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Learn More
Explore the sculpture of the Angkor period through research on The Statuary of Angkor
View a comparable Khmer sandstone fragment in our Khmer Empire Devotional Fragment 12th Century
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