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Lintel with Dancers and Musicians Flanked by Nagarajas

Central Cambodia

late 6th–early 7th century

Not on view

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

Lintel with Dancers and Musicians Flanked by Nagarajas, Sandstone, Central Cambodia — This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Lintel with Dancers and Musicians Flanked by Nagarajas, Sandstone, Central Cambodia

Lintel with Dancers and Musicians Flanked by Nagarajas, Sandstone, Central Cambodia

Lintel with Dancers and Musicians Flanked by Nagarajas, Sandstone, Central Cambodia

Lintel with Dancers and Musicians Flanked by Nagarajas, Sandstone, Central Cambodia

This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.

This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

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)

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