Ancient Khmer Bronze Vessel - 28 cm

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Ritual conch (Shanka) and its tripod pedestal for the Nâgas
Khmer Empire
Bayon period, 12th – 13th century
Bronze with a strong patina from copper-green patina and earthy concretions
Assembled set: 28 cm (height) x 13 cm x 13 cm

1. The Ritual Conch (Shanka)
Lustral bronze vessel imitating the natural shape of a marine shell. The spiral summit is entirely sculpted in relief with concentric geometric and floral motifs interwoven. The upper lip of the pavilion is accented by a frieze of chevrons or stylized petals. On the back of the conch, a finely chased relief cartouche depicts a deity (Hevajra or a danced-attired Buddha in a niche), surrounded by vegetal scrolls.

2. The Tripod Pedestal
Movable supporting base shaped like a blossomed lotus with pointed, overlapping petals. This receptacle rests on three curved feet, each carved in the likeness of a Nâga (mythical serpent) with a crest and stylized hood. The Nâga emerges from the ground to bear the sacred cup, symbolizing the cosmological link between the underground or aquatic world and the divine world.

The conch (shanka) is one of the major emblems of Hinduism (attribute of Vishnu) and of Vajrayāna Buddhism, omnipresent during the Bayon period. Used in consecration and royal or religious anointing rituals, it served to pour sacred water over statues of deities or over the hands of devotees. A complete set pairing the conch with its original tripod support constitutes a rare and highly prestigious testament to the liturgical furnishings of Khmer Empire temples.

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

Provenance: ex-private collection