Four-Armed Avalokitesvara

CAMBODIA

The four-armed statue, dated to the Angkor period (circa 9th–15th century), is identified as Avalokitesvara by the Buddha image incorporated into the topknot. The Bodhisattva is depicted with almond-shaped eyes, a prominent nose and the thick lips characteristic of sculptures from the region. The hairline is low, while the braids are coiled into a knot and secured with a string of large beads. The upper body is quite short, while the legs are almost exaggeratedly long. The figure wears the short local skirt, tied high at the back with a butterfly bow and worn low in front, exposing the navel. The simple and lithe sculpture reflects the graceful Baphuon style.