KHMER LINGAM

GRAY SANDSTONE

BAYON STYLE

CIRCA 12^th 13^TH CENTURY

66 cm / 26” high

DESCRIPTION: The lingam, a stylized phallic symbol of the cosmic masculine principal and of the Hindu god Shiva. Shiva, the god of destruction is also allied to his role in creation. The lingam is the symbol of fertility and in Bayon School is depicted with a rectangular base, faceted octagonal body and cylindrical upper section with domed top.

The cubic base represents Brahma, the octagonal prism represents. Vishnu, and a cylindrical section with a rounded top represents Shiva.