Buddha Protected by a Seven-headed Naga at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York

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This sculpture showcases a Buddha protected by a seven-headed Naga originating from Cambodia, crafted in the Bayon style during the Angkor period in sandstone between the late 12th and early 13th century. The fragmented sculpture is linked to the final phase of Buddhist patronage near Angkor Thom, at Angkor, under King Jayavarman VII's reign (1181-1218), a dedicated Mahayana Buddhist. It portrays what must be assumed was a seated Buddha in deep meditation, resting on the coils of a snake with its seven-headed hood raised above the Buddha's head. The cult of the animistic naga is an ancient practice in India and was quickly adopted in Angkorian Cambodia to reflect a meeting of Indic and local cults that acknowledge the power of snake-spirits. This object is part of "Scan The World". Scan The World is a non-profit initiative launched by MyMiniFactory, through which we are creating a digital archive of fully 3D printable sculptures, artworks, and landmarks from across the globe for public access at no cost. Scan The World is an open-source community effort; if you have interesting items around you and would like to contribute, email stw@myminifactory.com to find out how you can assist.