Antique Khmer Style Bronze Banteay Srei Style Standing Apsara or Angel - 69cm/28"
Measurements - H69cm/28"
An antique Khmer style bronze Devatas in pre-Angkor Banteay Srei style.
The ancient temples of the Khmer Empire, especially the world-renowned Angkor Wat and Banteay Srei temples, are adorned with breathtaking carvings of celestial beings known as devatas.
These spiritual figures hold a special place in Khmer art, architecture, and mythology, symbolizing divine guardianship, femininity, and cosmic order. The devatas not only reflect the religious devotion of the Khmer Empire but also serve as timeless representations of its cultural and artistic achievements.
In Hindu and Buddhist cosmology, devatas are celestial beings or minor deities who serve the higher gods and maintain cosmic balance. The term "devata" is derived from the Sanskrit word "deva," meaning deity or divine being. While apsaras (celestial dancers) are often depicted as graceful and ethereal, devatas are more often shown as guardians or spiritual figures embodying divine beauty and virtue.
In the context of Khmer temples, devatas are prominently carved into the walls and pillars, as here, often in a standing pose, adorned with intricate jewelry and garments. They are depicted with serene expressions, emphasizing their divine nature and protective roles.
This Devatas image can be seen throughout the 10th century Banteay Srei temple complex. Here Devatas is clothed in a simple sampot can kpin that is slightly lower at the front and higher at the back. The pleated surface of the sampot can kpin provides an interesting contrast with the smooth unadorned stomach and chest area.
Our Devatas displays a lovely, graceful figure shown frontally. Holding her knotted hair in her raised left hand. Devatas holds a lotus flower in her right hand. The lotus flower represents purity, compassion and the giving of great joy to all.
The face is defined by slightly arched eyebrows, full rimmed lips and. rather broad, flat nose. She is lavishly adorned with carved jewelry - earrings, pectoral, armlets, bracelets, belt with pendants and anklets.
The figure radiates a serenity and quiet power resplendent with the sensuality of the Banteay Srei style.
The devatas of Khmer history are much more than artistic adornments; they are profound symbols of spirituality, femininity, and cultural identity. Their presence in the majestic temples of Cambodia highlight the Khmer Empire’s devotion to art, religion, and cosmic harmony.
As custodians of sacred spaces and embodiments of divine beauty, the devatas continue to inspire awe and admiration. Their preservation not only honors the legacy of the Khmer Empire but also ensures that future generations can appreciate these timeless masterpieces and the cultural values they represent.
In Cambodia, the Devatas serve as a poignant reminder of the country’s glorious past and its enduring connection to the divine.
Enlighten your modern interior with this stunning antique style Khmer Devatas from HD Asian Art that with traditional design is sure to add an exotic touch to your modern interior.
Styled after artistic techniques prevalent in the time of the powerful Khmer Empire of South East Asia. This traditional in appearance piece is sure to add a unique touch to your home, office or sacred space.
One of the most recognisable of the Asian deities this representation of the Apsara is sure to enlighten your home with endlessly timeless style
