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Antique Banteay Srei Style Stone Mounted Khmer Vishnu Head - 56cm / 22"
Measures (Height) 56cm/22"
An antique Khmer style mounted stone Vishnu head in the pre-Angkorian late 10th century style of Banteay Srei. Vishnu is both world protector and preserver, restorer of moral order - he is all-powerful and all-pervasive by nature.
The Bantreay Srei style developed at the same time as the Pre Rup style and overlaps that of the Kleang. It uses and develops the formulas of the Koh Ker style, the headdress with horizontal tresses and the conical mukuta.
The moustache is also kept, but in a more discreet way. The fullness of the forms give the face a softness which accentuates the eyes opened wide, and the fleshy and sensual lips.
The anatomy shows a strong sense of observation. The overall silhouette is elegant and a reminder of the Pre Angkorian Art. The ornate carving of the diadem provide a delightful contrast with the smooth facial features.
The inner rims of the ears display the characteristic tripart scalloped treatment. The lobes are almost complete. Evidence of piercing can be seen in one ear. This would have been to receive real jewels during rituals and ceremonies. The face is defined by slightly arched eyebrows, full rimmed lips, beard, wide open rimmed eyes and a rather broad, flat nose.
A conical three tier chignon-cover surmounts the head and is surrounded by a diadem tied in the back with a bow knot, typical of the Banteay Srei period. Generally, the statues are small in size, but in scale with the temple, a feeling of elegance and softness is given off by the whole.
The head was designed to hold a precious jewel at the top of the ushnisha, as can be seen in our images. We have added a representation of this to the Vishnu. This delightful addition will accompany it.
The image radiates an aloofness, the quiet power of Vishnu and the sensuality typical of the Banteay Srei period.
The Vishnu has perfect balance and proportions which are the key to a fine Vishnu sculpture. The patina and details of this piece are particularly appealing.
The statue is mounted on a wood base. Provenance: Ex- private London collection.
To aid with safe transportation the Vishnu will be wood crated before shipping.
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The majority of orders will be shipped with DHL. This is a secure, express and fully tracked service.
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.
