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Kampuchea Chef I posted a couple of statues recently Thursday, April 20, 2023
I posted a couple of statues recently – they were Rishi sculptures – one having being sold at auction, the other on display at the National Museum. Normally, you will see these characters carved onto the foot of pillars at Angkor Wat, though the vast majority of them are disfigured and ignored by visitors, who direct their attention to the bas-reliefs on the walls nearby. These Rishi are beautifully carved with careful attention paid to their jewellery on their body and arms and to their facial expressions and their intricate chignon headdress. We know these were sculpted in the 12th century when Angkor Wat, the largest religious building in the world, was constructed. I must admit to having a soft spot for these oft-overlooked bearded characters. So, I was pleased to see a slightly different Rishi bas-relief during a visit to the Angkor Conservation Depot in Siem Reap on its last open day to the public. Inside the shrine of the black sandstone Buddha Muchalinda known as Preah Ang Kok Thlok, is a stele sitting on top of its own pedestal with a fairly simple styled Rishi, but with very life-like facial features, and a toned-down set of beaded body ornaments, earrings and chignon. I have no idea of its origin or date, so would appreciate any help in identifying it.
As for the hundreds of defaced Rishi at Angkor Wat, here are a few examples who have suffered through all weathers for nearly 1,000 years, but still retained their indomitable cross-legged pose. Rishi were extremely wise elderly bearded figures, often termed as a sage, ascetic, hermit or seer, and were said to have special powers, though not yet attained enlightenment. They even composed hymns on the basis of the great truth and knowledge they possessed. The iconography of their shape is believed to symbolize time, combining the V-shaped positioning of the legs and arms. Each Rishi at Angkor Wat, much like the 1,850+ female Devata figures, is unique I believe. I think for my next visit, I will put that to the test.https://www.facebook.com/andy.brouwer.71
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