Pre-Angkorean
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Pre-Angkorean sculpture refers to Khmer art from the 6th through 8th centuries CE, before the founding of the Angkor empire. The oldest known Khmer stone sculptures, dating to the early 6th century, were found in cave temples at Phnom Da near Angkor Borei, a major city of the Funan kingdom.
These early works show strong Indian influence, depicting Hindu and Buddhist deities in styles borrowed from Indian merchants and missionaries. But Khmer artists also pushed toward their own identity, breaking from Indian models with increasingly local features. Common subjects include Vishnu, Shiva (often as a linga), and the combined deity Harihara. Our collection includes 3 works at the Art Institute of Chicago.
Sculptures by Pre-Angkorean
3 sculptures catalogued with museum locations. Browse all sculptures
Museums with Pre-Angkorean's Work
1 museum displays Pre-Angkorean's works. Click any museum to see visiting info and the specific works they hold.
About Pre-Angkorean
It's Khmer art from the 6th through 8th centuries, before the Angkor empire. These early sandstone sculptures of Hindu and Buddhist deities show Indian influence but with emerging local Khmer characteristics.
Most depict Hindu and Buddhist deities: Vishnu, Shiva (often as a linga), Buddha, and Harihara, a combined form of Vishnu and Shiva unique to Khmer religious art.
The Art Institute of Chicago displays several pieces. The National Museum of Cambodia in Phnom Penh holds the most comprehensive collection.
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