Antique Preah-Ko Style Sandstone Vishnu Head - Protector & Preserver - 91cm/36"

Measures (Height) 91cm/36"

An impressive antique Preah-Ko Style sandstone Vishnu torso, in classic 10th century style. Stylistically, the image is transitional between the Bakheng and Koh Ker styles. 

The deity wears a tired octagonal chignon-cover with a plain nape-cloth surrounded by a diadem carved in the stone. 

The Vishnu embodies authority with its iconic downcast gaze and large unexpressive face. The general silhouette is heavier. With the Preah-Ko style the tiara and the chignon headdress become consistent and announce Angkorian Art. All features that suggest the prana, or inner breath, that signifies superhuman power. Vishnu is both world protector and preserver, restorer of moral order - he is all-powerful and all-pervasive by nature.

The mitre worn by pre-Angkorian Vishnu figures evolved into a multi-tiered pagoda shaped headdress bounded by an elaborate diadem comprising two registers, lozenges in the lower and alternating stems and petals in the upper. The features of Vishnu demonstrate a prominent nose, jutting lower lip and firm chin. The Vishnu has perfect balance and proportions which are the key to a fine Vishnu sculpture.

The pleated sampot can kpin and accompanying scarf are arranged in the Koh Ker style in which the upper fishtail is shorter that the lower fishtail.

The carving is beautiful as you can see in the fine details of the face. Each detail is rendered perfectly. The details of this piece are particularly appealing.

The Vishnu is loose mounted on a wood base (later).

Scholarly Reference:

National Museum of Cambodia, Phnom Penh, Ka 780

Provenance: Ex- private London collection. All items are guaranteed to be as described. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all purchases upon request.

SATISFACTION GUARANTEE - We have been offering SE Asian Art for many years and are proud of the reputation we have developed for fair and honest listings. However, if for any reason, whatsoever, you are unhappy with your purchase please just let us know and we will provide a full refund. We want you to be 100% happy with your purchase.