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Pre Rup style (947-965)


Figure22. Body of the female deity
Neang Khmao temple, Northern sanctuary, Tonle Bati, Takeo
H: 108 cm
Ka. 1653 B. 195 B. 422, 1
Acquired by the museum on 1 June 1923

The beauty of this torso lies in its beautiful shine, which has been caused by popular belief; people touched the torso in the hope of being blessed.

The way of wearing and draping the sampot is identical to that of the previous style. So are the beauty folds under the breasts.

However, the fold of the sampot is narrower compared to the Koh Ker style and pleats are heavier. The garment is most likely held by a belt that plays a more practical role than in the past.


Figure23. Female deity
Unknown origin
H: 84 cm
Ka. 709

This piece shows a two-armed goddess wearing a mukuta. The mukuta is divided in two sections, the diadem and the chignon cover. The diadem is finely decorated and the conical chignon cover is decorated along four rows. The mukuta worn here is almost identical to that worn by Varuna (Ka. 1579) riding the four hamsa (sacred ganders).
Her smiling expression, straight eyebrows that are continuous and long earlobes give this slender and light-breasted goddess a charming personality.

Most Pre Rup style deities are petite and their hair is always finely decorated.
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