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Antique Khmer Style Bronze Pre-Angkor Standing Shiva - 23cm/9"
Measures (Height) 23cm/9"
An unusual pre‑Angkor Khmer style Shiva, standing in elegant samabhanga on a small stepped pedestal and rendered with the distinctive lean, elongated proportions of early Cambodian sculpture.
His gently swaying posture and calm, frontal gaze convey both regal authority and ascetic poise, capturing Shiva as lord of yogis and guardian of sacred knowledge rather than in a purely destructive aspect.
Shiva’s forehead bears a clearly defined third eye, the hallmark of his iconography and a symbol of penetrating spiritual vision beyond ordinary perception. This inner eye is associated with the power to burn away illusion and ignorance (maya), revealing deeper truth and clarity. In one hand he holds a sutra or palm‑leaf manuscript, evoking his role as keeper of wisdom and the timeless scriptures.
In the other he carries a strand of mala beads, linking him directly with meditative practice and the disciplined repetition of mantras; together, these attributes present Shiva as teacher and contemplative guide, uniting text and lived experience.
The deity is richly adorned in early Khmer style, with a high tiered chignon and diadem, ornate necklace and chest ornaments, and a finely detailed sampot wrapped around the lower body.
Subtle incised patterns on the textiles and jewellery add rhythmic texture without overwhelming the purity of the form. Traces of age‑softened surfaces and a beautifully mottled patina highlight the contours of the figure, giving it a warm, time‑worn character that speaks of centuries of quiet presence.
As a pre‑Angkor style piece, the sculpture reflects a period when Hindu and emerging Buddhist traditions interacted closely in mainland Southeast Asia, and Shiva was revered as limitless, transcendent and deeply intertwined with royal power and spiritual practice.
This unusual standing Shiva, with his third eye, sutra and mala, offers a rare combination of historical interest and contemplative beauty—a refined yet powerful object that will bring depth, serenity and a distinctly Khmer sense of sacred style to any home, office or dedicated meditation 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.
