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Lintel with Dancers and Musicians Flanked by Nagarajas

late 6th–early 7th 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 group of musicians provides accompaniment to a male dancer, who, though much abraded, appears to be Shiva. The animated ensemble is flanked by two mighty nagarajas (snake kings), seated cross-legged, who provide a protective presence. The mood of ecstasy is typical of Brahmanical bhakti (religious devotion). Seventh-century Brahmanical Khmer temples were usually constructed of fired brick, with sandstone detailing reserved for the threshold, doorjambs, and lintels. This example must have been associated with a Shaiva shrine.

cat. no. 13

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Lintel with Dancers and Musicians Flanked by Nagarajas
  • Period: Pre-Angkor period
  • Date: late 6th–early 7th century
  • Culture: Central Cambodia
  • Medium: Sandstone
  • Dimensions: H. 15 3/4 in. (40 cm); W. 78 3/4 in. (200 cm); D. 9 1/2 in. (24 cm); approx. Wt. 1029 lbs. (466.8 kg)
  • Classification: Sculpture
  • Credit Line: Lent by National Museum of Cambodia, Phnom Penh (Ka.1757)
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art