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Palanquin Fittings

12th century

Cambodia

Copper alloy

Hooks, H. 9 x L. 4 3/4 x W. 6 1/4 in. (22.9 x 12.07 x 15.88 cm); rings, H. 6 in x L. 3 1/8 x W. 6 in. (15.2 x 7.94 x 15.24 cm)

Asia Society, New York: Mr. and Mrs. John D. Rockefeller 3rd Collection, 1979.70.1-3

Provenance

John D. Rockefeller 3rd, New York, NY; acquired from Peter Marks Gallery, New York, NY, 1969.

The Asia Society, New York, NY, bequest of John D. Rockefeller 3rd, New York, NY, 1979.

Licensing inquiries

Although stone and bronze sculptures are the best-known forms of Cambodian art, evidence exists that a well-developed and highly sophisticated art of metalwork, which served the functional and decorative needs of the court and aristocracy, flourished as well. These three bronze fittings, most likely used to embellish a wooden palanquin, are each made of a hollow section topped with a stylized flower, probably a lotus. The two outer fittings have hooks that resemble the stalks and leaves of the lotus. Comparison with other objects of this type suggests that these hooks may have once held rings that would have jangled as the palanquin moved, announcing the passage of an important personage.