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This graceful, lightly smiling divinity originates from the Buddhist monastery of Fondukistan in the Ghorband valley in the heart of Hindu Kush mountains. 

Based on current scientific knowledge, this sculpture seems to be one of the oldest Khmer representations of Harihara, a divinity half Vishnu (Hari) on the left with a crown and a disc, and half Shiva (Hara) on the right with its ascetic bun, moon crescent, tiger skin cloth and trident.

One of the most representative pieces of Nepalese art at musée Guimet illustrates the birth of an exceptional being: the Buddha, a landmark in the spiritual history of mankind.

Khmer sculptors were able to represent the expressiveness of the samadhi, a physical and mental state of meditative consciousness very convincingly.

In Nepal, several Buddhist ceremonies necessitated the presence of five priests, known as vajracarya, the "Thunderbolt-diamond" masters. They would traditionally wear a metal crown adorned with symbolic ornaments.

Although deprived of any royal insignia or ornaments, this head is of King Jayavarman VII (r.1181-1218). It is widely regarded as one of the masterpieces of musée Guimet.

This face framed by twisted red hair express benevolence and agressivity all at the same time. The richness and refined treatment of the ornaments showcases the decorative qualities of Newar Art from the Kathmandu Valley in the 16^th century.

Indian ivory pieces found alongside Roman bronzes, glass from Alexandria and Chinese lacquer articles right in the midst of Afghanistan: archaeology has many (beautiful) surprises in store for us!