Standing crowned Buddha Thailand, Lopburi period 900–1300 This imposing bronze Buddha holds both hands upright in the gesture of reassurance. The protuberance on top of the head symbolises the Buddha’s extraordinary abilities and wisdom. He is crowned and richly adorned with neck pieces, armbands and heavy drop earrings emblematic of the Khmer royalty. His clothing defines the paradox of Buddha: he is at once World Ruler (symbolised by his crown) and World Renouncer (symbolised by the humble robes of a monk). This Buddha was created in the early 1100s during the magnificent Khmer empire which has left Angkor Wat as its most enduring architectural monument.