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Antique Khmer Style Koh Ker Stone Brahma Head - Hindu God Creation - 42cm/17"
Measurements H42cm (17")
An antique Khmer style freestanding Brahma head in the Cambodian Koh Ker style. Brahma is the Hindu God of Creation and one of the Trimurti, the others being Vishnu and Shiva.
The Koh Ker period of Cambodian history (928–944 CE) represents a fascinating chapter in the Khmer Empire, distinguished by monumental architectural projects and significant shifts in religious focus. While the period is most renowned for its devotion to Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction and transformation, the god Brahma—the creator in Hindu cosmology—also held an important, though more subtle, role during this era.
Brahma's presence and influence during the Koh Ker period underscore the broader religious landscape of Cambodia, where the Hindu trinity (Trimurti) of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva played essential roles in shaping the spiritual and political identity of the Khmer kingdom.
In Hindu cosmology, Brahma is the god of creation, responsible for creating the universe and all living beings. Depicted here with four heads, symbolizing his omniscience and ability to see in all directions. Brahma's presence in Hindu temples and art symbolizes the ongoing process of creation, which complements the preservation (Vishnu) and destruction (Shiva) aspects of the universe.
In Cambodia, particularly during the early centuries of the Khmer Empire, Indian religious influence played a crucial role in shaping the religious landscape. The Khmer kings adopted Hinduism as the state religion, building temples to honor the Hindu gods. While the focus was often on Shiva or Vishnu, Brahma remained a significant figure in the religious and philosophical understanding of the universe.
The power emanating from this compelling Brahma image characterises Koh Ker style. As is typical with this style the Brahma has a soft face and is adorned with an elaborate tiara or mukuta. A tradition that continued to develop in Cambodia from the 10th century to the post-Angkor period.
Unusually, the head is free standing and as such does not require a wood mount.
The carving is beautiful as you can see in the fine details of the face and hands. Each detail is rendered perfectly. Traditional in appearance, the sculpture will bring serenity and timeless style to your home, office or sacred space.
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Items less than 2Kg we typically ship using Royal Mail.
Once we receive your order we try to ship all orders the same or next working day.
Large and/or fragile pieces requiring palletising, specialist crating and/or extra packaging may take a little longer. Palletised shipments will be delivered curbside.
All orders over 35 GBP will be shipped free of charge.
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We genuinely hope that all purchases delight.
However, if they do not, regardless of reason, we will refund all orders upon receipt of the unwanted item. Just notify us within 14 days of receiving your order that you wish to make a return and send the piece back to us with 30 days of delivery.
