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In the heart of the city of Nantes, a treasure of Khmer heritage comes back to life. THE Vishnu of Mebon, this remarkable bronze statue discovered at Angkor in the 1930s, is about to begin a new chapter in its history. Imposing and mysterious, this masterpiece of 11th century little by little reveals the secrets of its former glory, while it undergoes meticulous restoration at the Arc’antique laboratory. This landmark event not only revives the memory of Khmer art, but also promises to amaze art lovers around the world during its upcoming exhibition at the Guimet Museum, Paris.
At the heart of the fascinating world of Khmer art, the Vishnu of Mebon stands as a majestic witness to Cambodian history. Discovered in the 1930s on the Angkor site, this national treasure, dated 11th century, is currently being restored in Nantes. This exceptional project aims to bring this colossal work back to life before highlighting it at the Guimet Museum in Paris. Through this article, let’s dive into the captivating story of this remarkable statue and its journey to France.
A treasure of Khmer art discovered in Angkor
In 1936, during archaeological excavations in the temple of Mebon Western, researchers uncover what will become one of the largest known Khmer bronzes. Initially measuring more than 5 meters, this remarkable statue represents the Hindu god Vishnu, lying on the ocean of eternity. As an iconic illustration of religious art of the period, this piece is notable for its impressive size and sculptural finesse, embodying centuries of devotion and exceptional craftsmanship.
The rebirth of a masterpiece in Nantes
Arrived in France in May 2024, the Vishnu of Mebon was introduced into the laboratories of Arc’antique in Nantes, where it is currently undergoing a meticulous restoration process. Protected by a white adhesive tape which demarcates the areas of intervention, this monument is now on a trolley, like on a hospital bed. This delicate treatment of this colossal bronze makes it possible to work on corroded surfaces, attempting to regain its ancient golden splendor, which has disappeared over the centuries from burial.
An explorer of memory: the work under restoration
Stéphane Lemoine, metals specialist at the laboratory, passionately describes the current state of this statue which is, in many ways, a palimpsest of Khmer history. “ We are facing a state of localized crusting which retains sediment, affecting the readability of the details of the modelling. “, he emphasizes. This restoration project is not only technical work; it is a quest to rediscover the wealth of colorful details – gilding, polychromy of eyebrows and lips – which formerly embellished the statue. The goal is to breathe new life into art that has faded over time, while respecting the historical integrity of the work.
An encounter with history through the exhibition
THE Vishnu of Mebon will not be unknown during his next exhibition at the Guimet museum in Paris, scheduled from April 30 to September 8. Yannick Lintz, president of the museum, expresses unreserved admiration for this masterpiece: “ It is spiritually and religiously of great importance, like the Mona Lisa of the Louvre “. This comparison to an iconic masterpiece highlights the statue’s deep cultural significance, reminding everyone that these works transcend their materiality to become universal artistic references.
Polychromy and gilding: a flamboyant past
As we contemplate the work today, it is fascinating to imagine what it looked like in its heyday. The statue, at the time of its creation, was completely gilded, adorned with vibrant details. The refinements of the polychromy on the eyes, the mustache and the lips were intended to make the divine image even more vivid. This radiance was an invitation to meditation and devotion, reinforcing the importance of Vishnu in Asian spirituality.
Towards a bright future for Vishnu
The journey of Vishnu of Mebon through time, from its discovery at Angkor to Nantes and soon Paris, testifies to the growing attachment to the preservation of Khmer heritage. This project will not only bring new life to a monumental work of art but also bring together cultures across time and space. With an imminent exhibition highlighting the Khmer bronzes, we have the unique opportunity to rediscover and honor this incredible artistic wealth, which continues to amaze the world.
To find out more, we invite you to discover the following articles: West France, South East Asia, The Little Journal.
Frequently Asked Questions – Vishnu of Mebon
Q: What is the Vishnu of Mebon? It is a bronze statue from the 11th century, representing the Hindu god Vishnu, lying on the ocean of eternity. It was found at Angkor in 1936 and is considered one of the largest bronzes discovered in this region.
Q: Where is he now? The statue is currently at the Arc’antique laboratory in Nantes, France, where it is undergoing restoration before its presentation at the Guimet Museum in Paris.
Q: What is the original size of the Vishnu of Mebon? The statue was originally over 5 meters long, but today only the upper part is exposed and measures over 2.20 meters.
Q: Why is it green these days? The statue was once completely gilded, but over the centuries the gilding has disappeared due to burial and corrosion. Today, only a few golden plots remain.
Q: What artistic details does it have? In addition to its gilding, the statue was polychromed with colors on the eyebrows, eyes, lips and mustache, bringing additional liveliness to the work.
Q: What is the importance of the Vishnu of Mebon in Cambodian culture? Vishnu is one of the great deities of the Khmer religious pantheon. This monumental work is not only an artistic masterpiece, but it also symbolizes the spirituality and cultural heritage of Cambodia.
Q: When will it be exhibited at the Guimet museum? The statue will be presented at the Guimet museum in Paris from April 30 to September 8.