Khmer style of the Bayon; frontal stance; probably had extended hands; narrow shoulders and wider hips; eyes are closed; physiognomy relaxed; sublime expression

Prajnaparamita, late 12th-early 13th century

Unknown artist, expand_more

Grey sandstoneexpand_more

The John R. Van Derlip Fundexpand_more  97.105

The supple carving of bodily volumes lends this polished stone sculpture a levity and grace for which Khmer sculpture is renowned. It was likely created during the rule of King Jayavarman VII (reign c. 1181–1218), who identified himself with the Buddha and, in turn, equated his mother with Prajnaparamita, the mother of all Buddhas. He commissioned freestanding sculptures of the deity—the Goddess of Transcendent Wisdom—in the queen’s likeness, with a diminutive Buddha in her crown. This dual portrait demonstrates how the Khmer Empire (802–1437 CE) adopted the Indian concept of Deva-Raja (God-King) and established its rule with divine order.

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Prajnaparamita (Goddess of Transcendence Wisdom) (#291)
Details
Title
Prajnaparamita
Role
Artist
Accession Number
97.105
Curator Approved

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Khmer style of the Bayon; frontal stance; probably had extended hands; narrow shoulders and wider hips; eyes are closed; physiognomy relaxed; sublime expression