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Brahman Priest, probably Agastya

late 8th–9th century
Not on view
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.
This figure likely represents the Vedic sage Agastya, Shiva’s supreme devotee. Praised for his devotion in the most ancient Indian texts—the Vedas and the Puranas—Agastya was much revered in Southeast Asia, especially in Java. That this image was found in the Malay Peninsula points to his wider following in the region. Brahman priests and sages (rishi) are assumed to have played a key role as agents of change in first-millennium Southeast Asia. Some rose to high office, establishing a hereditary priestly class that served successive rulers, advising in statecraft as well as spiritual matters.

cat. no. 105

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Brahman Priest, probably Agastya
  • Date: late 8th–9th century
  • Culture: Malaysia
  • Medium: Copper alloy
  • Dimensions: H. 20 1/2 in. (52 cm); W. 5 7/8 in. (15 cm); Wt. 31 lbs (14.1 kg)
  • Classification: Sculpture
  • Credit Line: Lent by Muzium Negara, Kuala Lumpur (MN.BALAIB.45.2008)
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art