Ancient Khmer Bronze Vessel - 28 cm

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Ritual conch (Shankha) and its tripod pedestal for Nagas
Khmer Empire
Bayon Period, 12th–13th century
Bronze with strong patina of green-blue corrosion and earthy encrustations
Assembled ensemble: 28 cm (height) x 13 cm x 13 cm

1. The Ritual Conch (Shankha)
A lustral bronze vessel imitating the natural shape of a marine shell. The spiraled summit is entirely sculpted in relief with concentric geometric and floral motifs interwoven. The upper lip of the pavilion is accentuated by a frieze of chevrons or stylized petals. On the back of the conch, a finely relief-engraved cartouche depicts a deity (Hevajra or a ritually adorned dancing Buddha in a niche), surrounded by vegetal scrolls.

2. The Tripod Pedestal
A removable supporting base shaped like a blooming lotus with pointed, layered petals. This receptacle rests on three curved legs, each carved with the profile of a Naga (mythical serpent) standing, recognizable by its crest and stylized hood. The naga emerges from the ground to bear the sacred chalice, symbolizing the cosmological link between the underground or aquatic world and the divine realm.

The conch (shankha) is one of the major emblems of Hinduism (attribute of Vishnu) and Vajrayāna Buddhism, omnipresent in the Bayon period. Used in consecration and royal or religious anointing rites, it was employed to pour sacred water over statues of deities or over the hands of devotees. A complete set combining the conch and its original tripod support constitutes a rare and highly prestigious testament to the liturgical furniture of Khmer Empire temple worship.

Condition:
Good overall archaeological condition. The ensemble shows a very textured excavation patina, characterized by significant copper carbonate efflorescences and sedimentary deposits embedded in the relief details. Some wear and natural metal erosion on the edges and extremities, combined with sedimentary concretions.

Provenance: ex-private collection