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Jayavarman Statue - Antique Khmer Style Stone Bayon Mounted Jayavarman Bodyguard Shield Statue - 69cm/28"
Measures (Height) 69cm/28"
A fabulous and very unusual 12th century post-Angkor Bayon style sandstone mounted Hand and Buckler shield from Cambodia.
The Bayon temple's bas-reliefs depict scenes of King Jayavarman VII's army and court, including soldiers, some of whom likely served as bodyguards, armed with spears and round Buckler shields, as we see here.The buckler is a small round shield, typically between 8 and 16 inches (20–40 cm) in diameter. The buckler was one of very few types of shield that were usually made of sturdy leather or wood, reinforced with metal. A distinctive piece of defensive equipment that provides a unique window into ancient Khmer warfare, craftsmanship, and spiritual beliefs.
Small and light, the buckler was easily carried by being hung from a belt; it gave little protection from missiles and was reserved for hand-to-hand combat where it served both for protection and offence. The buckler's use began in the Middle Ages and continued well into the 16th century.
The stunning bas-reliefs of the Bayon temple offer general insight into the composition and appearance of the royal military retinue rather than identifying specific, named individuals. They also demonstrate how these buckler shields would have been used during combat.The Bayon’s murals immortalize historic battles, notably the Khmer-Cham naval engagements on Lake Tonle Sap. Khmer warriors are illustrated holding these bucklers as they defend their ships and city, presenting a vivid tableau of courage, discipline, and military strategy.Key details from the bas-reliefs and historical context:-- Depictions of Soldiers: The outer gallery bas-reliefs, which illustrate historical events like the naval battle against the Cham, show numerous soldiers, some likely part of the royal guard. Many are holding round shields, such as this, to protect their hands and forearms.
- Female Bodyguards/Attendants: One account, based on historical descriptions of the palace, mentions "palace bodyguards holding shields and spears" who were women. These guards were part of the royal procession.
- Elephant Bodyguard: The king, when appearing in public on an elephant, was surrounded by an "elephant bodyguard, close together, and even more soldiers for full protection, walking close order".
- Temple Guardians: The temple itself features numerous stone guardian figures, such as lions and possibly statues of devatas and asuras (gods and demons), which served a symbolic protective function.
In summary, the bas-reliefs show the general composition of the king's security, which included soldiers on foot and elephants, some potentially female, all armed with contemporary weapons like spears and shields.No specific names of his bodyguards are provided in the reliefs or associated inscriptions commonly available.The Khmer buckler shields inscribed in Bayon’s stone provide a multidimensional portrait of ancient Cambodia—where spiritual symbolism, innovative design, and heroic legend intertwine.
For history enthusiasts, travelers, and cultural researchers, these murals invite deeper appreciation of the Khmer Empire and the living heritage of Angkor.
This sculpture is presented as found, elegantly modelled from a solid block of sandstone. As with images from this period, the ornamentation reflects a perfect mastery of sculpting and fluidity. The detailed features of the statue project grandeur, whilst also appearing delicate in nature.
The sculpture is masterfully modelled in realistic human form, standing in a strong posture mounted on a wood base. The stone is finely polished.
To aid with safe shipping your sculpture will be wood crated before shipping. There is no additional cost for this packing, crating and shipping service.
One of the most recognizable of the Asian deities this representation of Ganesha is sure to enlighten your home with endlessly timeless style.
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Items less than 2Kg we typically ship using Royal Mail.
Once we receive your order we try to ship all orders the same or next working day.
Large and/or fragile pieces requiring palletising, specialist crating and/or extra packaging may take a little longer. Palletised shipments will be delivered curbside.
All orders over 35 GBP will be shipped free of charge.
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We genuinely hope that all purchases delight.
However, if they do not, regardless of reason, we will refund all orders upon receipt of the unwanted item. Just notify us within 14 days of receiving your order that you wish to make a return and send the piece back to us with 30 days of delivery.
