Lot 194B
Southeast Asia, Cambodia, Khmer Empire, Angkor Period, ca. 12th century CE. A majestic embodiment of divine sovereignty, this Khmer sandstone sculpture presents the four-armed Hindu god Vishnu enthroned atop a cube-like plinth upheld by four muscular guardian lions. The god sits in yogic posture, serene and symmetrical, with front hands lowered in natural repose and upper arms raised to display two of his sacred emblems: the conch (sankha) and discus (cakra), potent symbols of protection, cosmic order, and divine authority. The figure is adorned in regalia appropriate to a celestial king. He wears a tall multi-tiered crown (mukuta) and broad diadem, with his chest and arms ornamented by finely carved jewelry and the sacred thread (yajnopavita) crossing his torso. His calm expression and idealized features reflect the classical Khmer canon of divine beauty, developed at its height during the Angkor period under Suryavarman II and Jayavarman VII. Size: 15" L x 16" W x 35.4" H (38.1 cm x 40.6 cm x 89.9 cm)
Supporting Vishnu's divine seat are four squatting lions, each crouched in a fierce yet stabilizing posture, their arms raised to bear the cosmic weight. These leonine guardians, with gaping mouths and squared shoulders, echo motifs found in Khmer temple bases, where such beings serve both architectural and symbolic roles - protectors of the dharma and carriers of sacred burden.
This form of Vishnu as the enthroned preserver evokes his cosmic role as upholder of balance in the universe. The structure of the base, with its animated supports and framed niches, reflects both the physical and metaphysical weight of the god it bears. Such imagery speaks to the Khmer vision of sacred kingship, where gods and rulers alike preside with steady hands over a world held firm by law, guardianship, and divine geometry.
Provenance: private Studio City, California, USA collection
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#194937
- Condition: Two hands have been professionally reattached with chipping and adhesive visible along one break line. Areas of chipping, as well as nicks and abrasions, commensurate with age. Otherwise, very nice presentation with impressive detail. And earthen deposits in recessed areas.
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