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The Ancient Art of Enlightenment
Ann E. Berman
08/02/2004
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Southeast Asia’s Minimalism
Khmer sculpture, which Cambodian and Thai
artists created during the same period, has a different appeal. Pared down and
stylized, Khmer sculpture borders on the abstract—a fact that has not been lost
on collectors of contemporary art. There is considerable crossover collecting
between the two fields. “My identification with Khmer art comes through the
minimalist art I collect,” says a former museum director who asked to remain
anonymous. “It has the same reduced, minimal forms.”
Like most of the art produced during the ancient and medieval
periods,
Indian, Southeast Asian and Himalayan
sculpture celebrates man’s
relationship with the divine. |
“Minimal” is a term that
resonates with many Khmer fans. “The most sought-after pieces are 9th to 12th
century, full-standing female figures,” says Dean. “But fragments can be very
beautiful, very minimal. They look great next to a Rothko.” The 10th-century,
22-inch sandstone torso of Uma—one of Pavarti’s many appellations—sold at
Christie’s last March for $77,675. Obviously, Uma needed no arms or feet to be a
satisfying work of art.
Photos courtesy of Christie's Additional Information
 An Atlas of Artwork
 Buyer Beware
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