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| A rare ancient statue of Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge, music, art, wisdom and learning, is on display at the Museum of Vinh Long Province. VNA/VNS Photo by Pham Minh Tuan |
Viet Nam News
VINH LONG – The Museum of Vinh Long Province in the Mekong Delta has unveiled a rare ancient statue of Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge, music, art, wisdom and learning.
“This rare and precious statue is the first of its kind found in Viet Nam,” said Le Thanh Hien, deputy director of the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism.
The statue is 1.40 metres tall and made of sandstone, and dates from the fourth to seventh century. The right arm is partly broken, and the left hand holds a jug for holy water.
Hien said: “The statue of Saraswati is a precious antique, which will contribute to research on the history of Southern region, and as well as Viet Nam.”
The art work also reflects the historical cultural and diplomatic exchange between Viet Nam, India and Southeast Asia.
The statue of Saraswati was found in the Co Chien River in Tam Binh District last year and kept at the Phuoc An Pagoda in Tra On District. It was then given to the provincial museum for restoration and conservation. – VNS
OVietnam