Deity Statue - Antique Khmer Style Bayon Prajnaparamita Statue / Goddess - 45cm/18"

Antique Khmer Style Bayon Prajnaparamita Statue / Goddess - 45cm/18"

Measures (Height) 45cm/18"

An antique Khmer-style Prajnaparamita, Devi or Goddess statue in the late 12th–early 13th century Bayon style. Deeply revered by the Khmer, Prajnaparamita was the only Buddhist goddess explicitly praised in contemporary inscriptions, making this an especially meaningful image for those seeking both beauty and wisdom.

Here the goddess is shown kneeling in an attitude of adoration. This devout female figure is widely thought to evoke the physical appearance of Queen Jayarajadevi, the first and much‑loved wife of King Jayavarman VII (r. 1181–c.1218), portrayed in the guise of Prajnaparamita. Numerous related images have been discovered in temple ruins across Cambodia, with further examples in public and private collections worldwide; none are exactly identical, but all share a family resemblance, suggesting they were produced in some number to meet a strong contemporary devotional demand.

The present sculpture conveys an intensely spiritual woman with a slender, almost fragile body, believed to reflect the severe austerities Jayarajadevi is said to have undertaken while praying for her husband’s safe return from his campaigns against the neighbouring Cham. A tiny Amitabha Buddha placed at the front of the chignon-cover has led some scholars to identify kneeling figures of this type as either Prajnaparamita, spiritual mother of all Buddhas, or Tara, companion of the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara. Given the number of such kneeling female images, it is reasonable to see this sculpture as Jayarajadevi in the guise of Prajnaparamita, with the kneeling pose representing an innovative solution tailored to the subject’s personal devotion.

She is dressed in a finely carved sampot, one end forming a wide folded panel, the cloth decorated overall with geometric motifs, with a matching patterned sash. The facial features are delicate and composed, radiating quiet spirituality. The inner rims of the ears are beautifully scalloped, and, in keeping with her ascetic, pious character, they are left unpierced, without the heavy jewellery typically associated with royal Khmer figures.

The dark malachite patina and crisp detailing are particularly appealing, lending the piece great depth, character, and a strong sense of age.

Traditional in appearance yet rich with historical and spiritual resonance, this statue will bring a uniquely refined presence to any room, whether in a home, office, or dedicated sacred space.

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