Background on Khmer Sculpture

Early 12th Century Koh Ker Style Sculpture of Lakshmi - click for larger view

EarthDeco maintains a collection of hand-carved Khmer-style sandstone sculptures.  These pieces are very finely and meticulously chiseled by skilled artists to reproduce works that look nearly identical to the original, which cost many multiples the price.  After completion, each piece is burried in the ground for 30 days (less conscientious artists use battery acid other harsh chemicals that often find their way into local waterways) to provide a weathered antique-like appearance.  Each is then solidly mounted on a heavy-duty bronze stand.

The Khmer Kingdom (AD 802-1431) covered present-day Cambodia and much of present-day Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Myanmar (Burma).  Best known for the ancient city of Angkor, the empire's capital at the height of its power.  Angkor was originally larger than New York City is today, and its ruins are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, receiving nearly 1 million visitors annually.  The Khmer empire was originally Hindu, favoring the worship of Shiva, Vishnu, and Harihara, a combination of Vishnhu (Hari) and Shiva (Hara).  Buddhism spread to the region in the 13th century, and worshipers incorporated elements of Hinduism and other more ancient traditions into their beliefs and relgious art.  Interestingly, the iconography during this transition to Buddhism changed little, such that it's difficult to tell a 12th century Vishnu from a 13th or 14th century Buddha, especially without the full torso intact.  Often the only distinction might be hand or body position.  Clothing can also provide a clue, as certain styles disappeared before Buddhism arrived, or became fashionable only later. EarthDeco labels its pieces according to best knowledge, but in many instances the distinction between a Buddha and a Vishnu head, or to provide a specific time period, is an educated guess.  For more information on Khmer art, we suggest the definitive Adoration and Glory: The Golden Age of Khmer Art by Emma C. Bunker and Douglas Latchford.

EarthDeco's Khmer sculptures are exacting reproductions of original art works found at Angkor and other Khmer archaelogical sites in the region, using the same ancient materials, tools, and methods, passed down through generations of artists for millenia.

We currently have six Khmer-style sandstone sculptures in stock, but have access to suppliers with many other examples.  We can also provide quotes on original Khmer sculptures from the 11th-15th centuries.  Please contact us for more information.