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Premium Maison de Vente Bürgi
43
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Cambodia, Khmer art, Baphuon style, 11th century
See original version (French)
43
-
Cambodia, Khmer art, Baphuon style, 11th century
See original version (French)
Estimate €4,000 - €5,000
Voluntary lot
Description
Cambodia, Khmer art, Baphuon style, 11th century
Light grey sandstone.
Height: 48 cm.
An elegant sandstone sculpture depicting a standing male deity, rendered in the style of classical Khmer art. The figure is depicted in a frontal pose, exuding calm and dignity. The arms, now missing, were either added as separate pieces or carved directly from the block, whilst the left leg is partially preserved. Despite these long-standing losses, the quality of the craftsmanship remains perfectly evident.
The face, of remarkable serenity, displays the characteristic features of the Baphuon style: a broad forehead, slightly downcast almond-shaped eyes, a straight nose, full lips forming a subtle smile, and a delicately defined chin. The long, pierced ears attest to his sacred nature, whilst the tall cylindrical headdress, composed of finely striated locks of hair gathered into a bun, is typical of 11th-century Khmer sculpture.
The torso, powerfully modelled yet rendered with restraint, embodies the ideal of classical beauty developed during the reign of Udayādityavarman II. The sampot is rendered with great finesse: its vertical folds are deeply incised and the panel folded fan-like over the hip is one of the most characteristic stylistic features of this period.
The surface retains a beautiful light grey mineral patina, with gentle and even erosion. The ancient fractures to the arms and leg, as well as a few chips from wear, are consistent with a long history of preservation and reinforce the work’s archaeological character.
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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