Antique Baphuon Style Lakshmi / Devi Consort of Vishnu
An antique Baphuon style Lakshmi, devi or Goddess head from Cambodia.Â
A superb antique Baphuon style hand-carved Khmer Sandstone Deity Figure, of Lakshmi, stylistically and iconographically executed in traditional 'Baphuon' style, from Khmer mythology. The figure is presented in its unrepaired condition as found, elegantly modelled from a solid block of sandstone. As with images from this period, the ornamentation reflects a perfect mastery of sculpting and fluidity. Facial features of the statue retain characteristics of the previous Banteay Srei style, but appear more delicate.Â
The deity is masterfully modelled in realistic human form, standing in a strong frontal posture on a small square plinth retaining the original wedge support at the bottom. As is traditional, Lakshmi wears a long stylized sampot worn high on the hips, secured by a plain belt.Â
The face appears typically Khmer, with a serene expression, incised almond-shaped eyes, connected eyebrows above a well-shaped broad nose, wide plump mouth and elongated earlobes. Typical of the period, no tiaras or jewellery, decorates the sculpture. The hair is drawn onto the top of the head to form a bulb shaped-chignon, held in place by a worked gold chain or a garland of flowers. This is characteristic of the style.
Lakshmi is the Hindu goddess of wealth, prosperity (both material and spiritual), light, wisdom, fortune, fertility, generosity and courage. The embodiment of beauty, grace and charm. Also called Mahalakshmi, she is said to bring good luck, and is believed to protect her devotees from all kinds of misery and money-related sorrows.
Provenance: Private New York Collection
Medium: Stone
Dimensions: 107cm / 43”
General Condition: Good condition. Consistent with age.
SCST344
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An antique Baphuon style Lakshmi, devi or Goddess head from Cambodia.Â
A superb antique Baphuon style hand-carved Khmer Sandstone Deity Figure, of Lakshmi, stylistically and iconographically executed in traditional 'Baphuon' style, from Khmer mythology. The figure is presented in its unrepaired condition as found, elegantly modelled from a solid block of sandstone. As with images from this period, the ornamentation reflects a perfect mastery of sculpting and fluidity. Facial features of the statue retain characteristics of the previous Banteay Srei style, but appear more delicate.Â
The deity is masterfully modelled in realistic human form, standing in a strong frontal posture on a small square plinth retaining the original wedge support at the bottom. As is traditional, Lakshmi wears a long stylized sampot worn high on the hips, secured by a plain belt.Â
The face appears typically Khmer, with a serene expression, incised almond-shaped eyes, connected eyebrows above a well-shaped broad nose, wide plump mouth and elongated earlobes. Typical of the period, no tiaras or jewellery, decorates the sculpture. The hair is drawn onto the top of the head to form a bulb shaped-chignon, held in place by a worked gold chain or a garland of flowers. This is characteristic of the style.
Lakshmi is the Hindu goddess of wealth, prosperity (both material and spiritual), light, wisdom, fortune, fertility, generosity and courage. The embodiment of beauty, grace and charm. Also called Mahalakshmi, she is said to bring good luck, and is believed to protect her devotees from all kinds of misery and money-related sorrows.
Provenance: Private New York Collection
Medium: Stone
Dimensions: 107cm / 43”
General Condition: Good condition. Consistent with age.
SCST344
Estimate
Time, Location
Auction House
