Splendour of Khmer Iconography - Buddhist Hindu Sculpture Ancient Cambodian Art

Description: Free eBay listing template designed by dewiso.com Splendour of Khmer Iconography - Buddhist Hindu Sculpture Ancient Cambodian Art Please see details below.Hardcover with dust jacket. Tight and square binding. Clean pages with no readily visible underlining or writing.Cover soiled. Signed and inscribed by the author. I combine shipping. I have been selling books, coins, sports cards and other collectibles for more than 20 years.All items securely packed.Please note: If ordering internationally please request a more accurate weight for your package. Contact me any time... We can be contacted at any time through eBay messages if you have any questions, comments or product requests. We will respond to you within 24 hours and do our best to help you out! We encourage our customers to contact us with any questions or concerns! We'd like to be sure you are completely satisfied with your purchase. Some more details... Over the last 15 years, Mr Bassoul’s concentration has been on Khmer iconography and he has come to the conclusion that the Khmer sculptures presented to the public by the major world museums, despite their significant interest, were not enough to cover the much wider spectrum of Khmer iconography. In order to reach that goal, one has to resort to the Khmer sculptures in the hands of private collectors. From there, the idea was born to publish a book on the subject of Khmer iconography that would present some of the most relevant sculptures with the major world museums and complement that presentation with as many relevant examples in the hands of private collectors. Splendour of Khmer Iconography presents 57 museum sculptures and 102 sculptures in private collections with dates between the 5th and the 13th centuries. Khmer iconography, particularly from the classical Khmer Empire (9th to 15th century), is deeply influenced by Hinduism and Buddhism, which were the dominant religions of the region. The artistic traditions from this period, especially visible in temple carvings like those at Angkor Wat and Bayon, reflect a blend of religious, cosmological, and cultural elements. Key Themes in Khmer Iconography: 1. Hindu Influence - Deities: Hindu gods such as Vishnu, Shiva, and Brahma appear prominently. Vishnu is often depicted in various forms, such as reclining on the cosmic serpent Ananta, or standing in majestic postures. Shiva is commonly shown as a linga (a phallic symbol representing his creative power), or as a dancing figure (Nataraja), symbolizing the cycle of creation and destruction. - Apsaras and Devatas: Female celestial beings, often seen as dancers (Apsaras) or guardians (Devatas), are depicted with elaborate headdresses, jewelry, and flowing garments. Apsaras, in particular, represent divine beauty and grace, symbolizing the link between the mortal and divine realms. - Garuda: The mythical bird-man Garuda, who serves as the mount of Vishnu, appears frequently in temple carvings. Garuda is a symbol of power and protection, often depicted fighting serpents (Nagas). - Nagas: These serpent deities, which can have multiple heads, are also prominent. They represent water, fertility, and protection, and are often seen at the entrances of temples or as bridge balustrades. 2. Buddhist Influence - Buddha: After the 12th century, Mahayana and later Theravada Buddhism gained prominence, and Buddha images began to appear frequently in Khmer art. Buddha is usually depicted in meditation, standing or reclining poses, often with a serene expression, symbolizing enlightenment and compassion. - Lokeshvara (Avalokiteshvara): This bodhisattva of compassion became a central figure in Khmer Buddhist iconography. Lokeshvara is often depicted with multiple arms and a calm, meditative expression. - Bayon Faces: The iconic faces carved into the towers of the Bayon Temple are believed to represent either the bodhisattva Lokeshvara or King Jayavarman VII himself in a deified form, symbolizing the king’s role as a divine protector. 3. Cosmological Symbols - Mount Meru: Khmer temples are often symbolic of Mount Meru, the mythological mountain at the center of the universe in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology. The layout and structure of Khmer temples are designed to reflect this sacred geography. - Churning of the Ocean of Milk: This mythological episode from Hindu cosmology is commonly depicted in Khmer temples. It represents the struggle between gods (Devas) and demons (Asuras) to obtain the nectar of immortality, with Vishnu guiding the process. 4. Architectural Iconography - Lintels and Pediments: Intricate carvings on lintels (horizontal support beams) and pediments (triangular upper sections of walls) often depict scenes from Hindu epics like the *Ramayana* and *Mahabharata*. These carvings tell stories of gods, heroes, and moral lessons. - Bas-reliefs: Extensive bas-reliefs at sites like Angkor Wat depict historical events, religious stories, and daily life, often combining mythical and human elements. 5. Symbols of Royalty and Power - Kings as Devaraja: Khmer kings were often depicted as *devaraja* (god-kings), believed to be the earthly embodiment of divine beings like Shiva or Vishnu. Temples were constructed to reflect the king’s divine status, with iconography reinforcing this concept of sacred kingship. 6. Nature and Animals - Sacred Animals: Animals like lions (symbolizing strength and protection), elephants (representing wisdom and royal power), and monkeys (associated with the *Ramayana*) are frequently depicted in Khmer art. These animals often serve as guardians or participants in mythological scenes. Khmer iconography serves not only a religious and spiritual purpose but also represents a profound connection between the rulers, the cosmos, and the gods. The artistry is highly symbolic, with each element carefully crafted to reflect deeper meanings. Free eBay listing template designed by © dewiso.com.

Price: 195 USD

Location: Alexandria, Virginia

End Time: 2025-01-07T21:22:57.000Z

Shipping Cost: 9.13 USD

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Format: Hardcover

Language: English

Book Title: See Listing

Author: Unknown See Listing, Aziz BAssoul

Genre: History

Topic: American History, Ancient World, Architectural Photography, Architecture, Art History, Art Theory, Artists, Christian History, Contemporary History, Cultural History, Economic History, Family History, Family Life, Landscape Photography, Local History, Modern History, Periods of Art, Photojournalism, Regional History, Religions of the Ancient World, Sculpture, Social History, World History