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Angkor Wat: King Jayavarman VII
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Angkor Wat: King Jayavarman VII
CAMBODIA, Siem Reap, Angkor; 13th century; Sandstone; H: 113 cm; National Museum of Cambodia, Phnom Penh
The statue was found in Angkor Wat, which was built under order of King Jayavarman VII (reigned circa 1181-1220). The king himself also initiated an ambitious building program of his own. Because of his devotion to Buddhism, he was accounted a divine king and represented as a composite figure with elements of both Siva and the Buddha. He is characterized in this statue as a meditating Buddha and sits in an approximate half lotus position with knees raised. Obvious Khmer facial traits are present in the thick, full lips, and wide nose. |
