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Throne Stele

ca. 4th century
Not on view
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.
This enigmatic relief may be termed a “throne stele.” Given the prevalence of colossal stone imagery at Sri Ksetra, including large Buddha triads, it perhaps served as statement of royal power, its religious imagery designed to ensure political success by invoking magical protection. The stele is decorated in low relief on one side, probably intended as the front, the empty throne likely evoking the Buddha’s presence. On the reverse are three warrior figures, two holding standards associated with Vishnu. Buddhism and Vaishnavism enjoyed royal patronage concurrently at the city of Sri Ksetra.

cat. no. 12

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Throne Stele
  • Date: ca. 4th century
  • Culture: Central Myanmar
  • Medium: Sandstone
  • Dimensions: H. approx. 59 1/16 in. (150 cm); W. approx. 27 9/16 in. (70 cm); D. approx. 7 7/8 in. (20 cm); Weight 724 lbs. (328.4 kg)
  • Classification: Sculpture
  • Credit Line: Lent by National Museum, Yangon, Myanmar (1649)
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art