This is a sandstone statue of an Ascetic in meditation. This work originated from Preah Ko temple in Roluos region, Siem Reap province. In 1934, it was taken for safekeeping and registered into the collection of the National Museum of Cambodia.
According to Khmer art experts, this statue is in the Preah Ko style of the 9th century, Angkorian period. The ascetic sits with his palms join together in the Sampeah gesture. His legs crossed each other and they tied together for support. Which is a typical method used by Brahmanic India Ascetic in Yoga exercises.
It is a sandstone statue; his hair is folded in a coiffed. The forehead’s broad, eyes closed, and the nose has a pointed end that complements the facial form. He has a long beard that drop to the neck along with the bead necklace. All of these elements, be feeding description of a person in meditation, promoting to the Dharma.