Buddha Protected by Mucalinda

CAMBODIA; Angkor period

This sculpture depicts the Buddha, who had just attained enlightenment, being shielded by Mucalinda, the seven-headed Naga King. Naga Kings hold an important place in Cambodian mythology, since the story of creation involves a serpent. This image was created at the height of the Angkor period (circa 9th–15th century).
The Buddha is seated in half lotus position on the coils of the naga. The hands are in the lap with an object placed on the upper palm. The crowned Buddha has distinct features, including eyebrows joined in a straight line, a prominent nose, and wide mouth with full lips. The figure wears a diaphanous robe that covers the left shoulder as well as a jeweled collar, armlets, and bracelets. A ring around the hips represents the lower garment. The seven joined heads of the naga king form the nimbus. The scales are clearly defined and there is a stylized Dharma wheel below each head.