Head of Shiva

ca. 10th century
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 249
Sandstone architectural elements of this type are a regular feature of Hindu temples constructed by the Cham kingdoms of central and southern Vietnam. The temples are typically single-cell sanctuaries with a tapering tower above. They are built of fired brick with sandstone doorjambs, tympanums, and in a characteristically Cham innovation, antefixes such as this one projecting from the tower.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Head of Shiva
  • Period: Chams kingdoms
  • Date: ca. 10th century
  • Culture: Central Vietnam
  • Medium: Sandstone
  • Dimensions: H. 15 3/4 in. (40 cm); W. 8 5/8 in. (21.9 cm); D. 17 1/2 in. (44.5 cm)
  • Classification: Sculpture
  • Credit Line: Purchase, Carol Collins Malone Gift, in honor of Bradley Isham Collins, 2014
  • Object Number: 2014.520
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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