The Lost Treasure: The Finest Sandstone Lingam

Introduction

The cultural and religious artifacts of the Khmer Empire stand as some of the most remarkable testaments to human civilization. From the grand temples of Angkor Wat to intricately carved sculptures, these masterpieces reveal the artistic brilliance and spiritual depth of an empire that flourished between the 9th and 15th centuries. Among these sacred relics is a polished sandstone lingam, crafted in Bayon Style (12th/13th century), which exemplifies the spiritual devotion and artistic precision of the time.

Despite its historical significance, this extraordinary artifact is no longer in Cambodia. After changing hands through various collectors and auction houses, including Seward Kennedy’s Cabinet of Curiosities and Christie’s, its current whereabouts remain uncertain. This essay explores the history, symbolism, and significance of this lost treasure while emphasizing the urgent need for its repatriation.

The Lingam: A Sacred Symbol in Hinduism and Khmer Culture

The lingam is one of the most sacred symbols in Hinduism, representing Lord Shiva, the deity of creation and destruction. It is an abstract, phallic-shaped emblem that embodies divine energy, balance, and the infinite cosmic force. The square base, octagonal middle section, and cylindrical domed top reflect the Hindu trinity:

• Brahma (The Creator) – Represented by the square base, symbolizing stability and foundation.
• Vishnu (The Preserver) – Embodied in the octagonal midsection, signifying balance and harmony.
• Shiva (The Destroyer and Creator) – Manifested in the cylindrical top, emphasizing the endless cycle of destruction and rebirth.

In Khmer culture, Shiva worship was widespread, particularly during the Angkorian period when Hinduism deeply influenced Khmer art, architecture, and religious practices. Shiva was revered as one of the most powerful deities, and temples were adorned with lingams, symbolizing his omnipresence and cosmic significance. The belief in the lingam as a cosmic pillar that connects heaven and earth was integral to both Indian and Southeast Asian Hindu traditions.

The Khmer Empire, under rulers such as Jayavarman II and Jayavarman VII, promoted Shaivism (worship of Shiva) while integrating local beliefs. Many lingams were installed in temple sanctuaries, often accompanied by yoni (a circular base representing the feminine energy of Goddess Shakti). These divine symbols were meant to sanctify temple spaces, protect the empire, and ensure prosperity.

The Finest Sandstone Lingam: A Masterpiece of Khmer Art

This particular polished sandstone lingam, dating to the 12th/13th century, is an exquisite representation of Khmer craftsmanship. At 18 inches (46 cm) in height, it was sculpted with precision, featuring a highly polished surface that reflects the skill of Angkorian artisans. The distinct Angkor or Bayon style suggests that it was crafted during the reign of Jayavarman VII, a period known for its architectural and sculptural advancements.

This lingam follows the traditional Khmer religious aesthetic, characterized by:

• Smooth, polished surfaces, a hallmark of high-ranking temple artifacts.
• Geometrically precise proportions, emphasizing balance and spiritual harmony.
• Minimalist but profound design, focusing on symbolic representation rather than excessive ornamentation.

Given its fine craftsmanship, this lingam likely belonged to an important temple or royal shrine, where it would have served as an object of ritual worship and meditation.

The Journey of a Lost Treasure

Despite its deep cultural and religious significance, this remarkable lingam is no longer in Cambodia. Its documented provenance provides insight into its journey over the past century:

1. Pre-1971 – The lingam was already part of Seward Kennedy’s collection (either in New York or London).
2. 2016 – Sold at Christie’s South Kensington as part of Seward Kennedy’s Cabinet of Curiosities.
3. 2017 – Exhibited in London by Oliver Hoare in "Every Object Tells a Story."
4. 2019 – Auctioned at Christie’s for GBP 5,250 on 25 October 2019.

Beyond this, its current location is unknown, making it yet another lost artifact of the Khmer Empire.

The Displacement of Khmer Artifacts

The displacement of Khmer cultural artifacts is a tragic consequence of colonialism, war, and illicit trade. During the French colonial era (1863–1953), many Khmer sculptures and temple relics were taken to France, the UK, and the US, where they remain in private collections and museums.

The Khmer Rouge regime (1975–1979) further accelerated the looting of Cambodia’s heritage, with sacred statues, carvings, and relics stolen from temples, pagodas, and archaeological sites. These artifacts were smuggled and sold through the black market, ending up in auction houses and galleries worldwide.

While some international museums, such as The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and The Guimet Museum in France, house Khmer relics, a significant number remain in private collections, making their recovery even more challenging.

The Need for Repatriation

In recent years, Cambodia has intensified efforts to reclaim its lost heritage. The government, in collaboration with UNESCO, Interpol, and international legal experts, has successfully repatriated several Khmer artifacts from institutions such as the Denver Art Museum, Norton Simon Museum, and The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

However, thousands of pieces, including this sandstone lingam, remain unaccounted for. The case for repatriation is built upon:

1. Cultural and Religious Significance – These artifacts are not just artworks but sacred objects central to Cambodian identity.
2. Ethical Responsibility – Institutions and private collectors must acknowledge that these relics were often acquired under questionable circumstances.
3. Legal Frameworks – Cambodia is protected under UNESCO conventions that prohibit the illicit trade of cultural property.

The return of artifacts like this lingam would allow them to be preserved, studied, and appreciated within their rightful cultural context.

Conclusion

The finest sandstone lingam of the 12th/13th century stands as an emblem of Cambodia’s spiritual and artistic heritage, yet its loss reflects a larger issue of cultural displacement. While its journey through private collections and auction houses is documented, its current location remains unknown.

The importance of repatriating such treasures cannot be overstated. These artifacts belong in Cambodia, where they can be respected as part of the nation’s history and spirituality. Until efforts are successful in returning this lingam and similar relics, they will remain lost treasures—fragments of a glorious past waiting to be restored to their rightful home.