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Premium Maison de Vente Bürgi
42
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FOUR-ARMED HINDU DEITY
See original version (French)
42
-
FOUR-ARMED HINDU DEITY
See original version (French)
Estimate €2,000 - €3,000
Voluntary lot
Description
FOUR-ARMED HINDU DEITY
Cambodia, Khmer art, Baphuon style, 11th century
Bronze with a green and brown patina.
Height: 40 cm.
A rare bronze depicting a standing Hindu deity, sculpted in a frontal pose imbued with majesty and balance. The figure has four arms, two of which retain their original gestures, whilst the other two show signs of ancient damage, bearing witness to the work’s history. This iconography likely refers to Vishnu, one of the principal deities of the Hindu pantheon adopted by the rulers of the Khmer Empire.
The face, of great nobility, displays the characteristic features of the Baphuon style: a broad forehead, slightly downcast almond-shaped eyes, a straight nose, full lips curving into a subtle smile, and a delicately modelled chin. The tall, conical headdress, finely tiered, is accentuated by a beaded diadem, whilst the long ears adorned with pendants serve as a reminder of the figure’s divine status.
The torso, with its supple forms and harmonious proportions, contrasts with the opulence of the short sampot, finely pleated and held in place by an ornate belt, the central panel of which falls elegantly. This refined treatment of the garment is characteristic of the great Khmer statuary of the 11th century.
The high-quality cast iron retains a pleasing patina of age, blending shades of dark green and brown. The wear and tear, small gaps and losses on the arms are consistent with the work’s age and in no way detract from its aesthetic power.
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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