We acknowledge the Gadigal of the Eora Nation, the traditional custodians of the Country on which the Art Gallery of NSW stands.

Title

Buddha sheltered by the seven-headed serpent, Mucalinda

circa 15th century-17th century

Artists

Unknown Artist

Alternate image of Buddha sheltered by the seven-headed serpent, Mucalinda by
Alternate image of Buddha sheltered by the seven-headed serpent, Mucalinda by
Alternate image of Buddha sheltered by the seven-headed serpent, Mucalinda by
Alternate image of Buddha sheltered by the seven-headed serpent, Mucalinda by

  • Details

    Place where the work was made
    Cambodia
    Cultural origin
    Khmer empire
    Date
    circa 15th century-17th century
    Media category
    Sculpture
    Materials used
    sandstone
    Dimensions
    16.0 cm
    Signature & date

    Not signed. Not dated.

    Credit
    Purchased 1965
    Location
    Not on display
    Accession number
    EV1.1965
    Copyright

    Reproduction requests

    Share

  • About

    The motif of the meditating Buddha protected by the coils of the naga king Mucalinda was a favourite of Khmer sculptors and also became popular in Thailand. Nagas, ancient Indian protectors of water and earth, were important guardian spirits. Legend tells that Mucalinda shielded Buddha from rain and rising floods spreading the hoods of his seven heads as a canopy.

  • Places

    Where the work was made

    Cambodia

  • Exhibition history

    Shown in 2 exhibitions

  • Provenance

    Joshua McClelland Print Room, 1965, Melbourne/Victoria/Australia, purchased by Mr J.H. Myrtle on behalf of the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney, March 1965.