This is a sandstone statue of a worshipper holding a sacred script on the head. It originated from Ba Khan temple, Preah Khan Kompong Svay, in Sangkum Thmey district, Preah Vihear Province. In 1940, it was transferred for preservation as part the collection of the National Museum.
Khmer art experts have determined that this masterpiece was created in the 14th century, Angkorian period. The worshipper sits cross legged while carrying a sacred script on the head. The figure wears a Sampot Samloy tusk under a belt, which is simple and undecorated. Both hands hold up the sacred script, which has four lines of inscription. The letters in the top two lines stand out clearly and read may I pray in rememberings of the virtue of Lord Buddha and the Dharma.
The following two lines, however, are difficult to read. The statue wears a scarf across the chest to cover the left shoulder, leaving the right exposed. A closer examination reveals the statue is not as thoroughly polished as the statue produce in previous period of Khmer art.