Bronze. Khmer Empire, Bayon 13th cent.
An unusual piece, as the four-armed Lokeshvara stands under the powerful shield of a seven-headed Naga, depicting the snake king Muchalinda. This usually only occurs with Buddha and signalizes the high esteem for this bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara at the time. The four arms and attributes are preserved - left and right above the prayer beads mala and book pustaka, right below nectar vessel amrta-kalasha and left lotusbud padma. Lokeshvara wears a sambat with fishtail pleat and stands on a triple-ringed scaly snake body on a square base. On the back of the Naga shield is ornament. This bronze is completely preserved and was retained in its original condition. Consistent age characteristics and green patina, as well as soil encrustation.
HEIGHT 22,5 CM
From an old South German collection, acquired between 1960 and 1970