Exquisite 75cm Khmer Sandstone Torso – A Masterpiece of Baphuon Period Artistry
A Rare and Majestic Khmer Sculpture from the 11th Century
TEM DESCRIPTION
This exceptional 75 cm tall sandstone torso, with a width of 32 cm, embodies the refined sculptural style of the Baphuon period (circa 1010–1080 CE), an era renowned for its shift towards naturalism and grace in Khmer art. The elongated proportions, the fluid curves of the waist, and the intricate detailing of the sampot (traditional Khmer garment) suggest that this piece represents a divine or semi-divine female figure, possibly an Apsara (celestial dancer) or a goddess.
Acquired from a distinguished private collection, this statue carries an air of mystery, having been safeguarded as part of a legacy passed down through generations. Its undocumented origins add to its allure, inviting the collector to appreciate its artistic significance and rarity.
Exquisite Baphuon Period Characteristics & Artistry
A Testament to Khmer Aesthetic Ideals
The Baphuon period is celebrated for its graceful forms, delicate detailing, and harmonious proportions, a departure from the rigid postures of earlier Khmer styles. This torso exhibits all the hallmarks of Baphuon-period sculpture:
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Elegant, Elongated Proportions – The statue’s slender waist and gently curved upper torso exemplify the era’s idealized vision of beauty.
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Refined Sampot Drapery – The intricately carved sampot, featuring an upward-curving lotus-like pattern at the waist, is a defining characteristic of Baphuon art. This lotus motif, exclusive to the front of the garment, may symbolize spiritual purity and divine elegance.
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Minimal Adornment – Unlike later Angkorian sculptures, the absence of elaborate jewelry and upper-body ornaments shifts the focus to the graceful contours of the body, enhancing the divine presence of the figure.
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Masterful Stonework – The sculptor’s use of subtle light and shadow interplay brings out the three-dimensionality of the form, highlighting the refined craftsmanship of the period.
Material & Condition
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Authentic Khmer Sandstone – This torso is crafted from fine-grained sandstone, the favored medium of Khmer artisans due to its durability and ability to hold intricate details.
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Natural Patina & Timed Wear – Over the centuries, the stone has developed a soft, warm patina, with minor stains and weathering that attest to its age and historical journey.
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No Structural Repairs – The statue remains in its original, untouched condition, with no visible repairs or restorations, preserving its authenticity.
Display & Presentation – A Museum-Grade Masterpiece
To complement its significance, this torso is mounted on a custom-designed museum-grade stand, featuring:
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A wooden base with an acrylic finish for an elegant and sophisticated presentation.
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Steel structural support to ensure stability and secure display.
The stand enhances the sculpture’s monumental presence, making it an exceptional centerpiece for museums, private collections, or luxury interior spaces.
A Coveted Acquisition for Discerning Collectors
This Baphuon-period Khmer torso is an extraordinary opportunity for collectors, scholars, and enthusiasts of Southeast Asian art. As a rare surviving example of 11th-century Khmer craftsmanship, it stands as a testament to the artistic and spiritual legacy of the Angkorian civilization.
Due to the historical and cultural sensitivity of Khmer artifacts, this piece is offered without official provenance documentation, allowing the buyer to engage in further research at their discretion.
References
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Christie’s. (n.d.). A Sandstone Figure of Vishnu, Khmer, Angkor Period, Baphuon Style, 11th Century. Retrieved from https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-4568884
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National Museum of Cambodia. (n.d.). Stone Objects. Retrieved from https://www.cambodiamuseum.info/en_collection/stone_object.html
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The Metropolitan Museum of Art. (n.d.). From Quarry to Sculpture: Understanding Provenance, Typologies, and Uses of Khmer Stones. Retrieved from https://www.metmuseum.org/about-the-met/conservation-and-scientific-research/projects/khmer-stones
Origin: Cambodia
Period: Baphuon
PRODUCT DETAIL
Medium: Sandstone
Dimensions:
Height 60 cm
Length – cm
Wide 17 cm
Condition Report: –
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