Rare Cambodian Temple Painting: Buddha's Sermon and Descent

A rare Cambodian temple painting 'Preah Bot', early to mid 20th century, the painting is divided into two registers, the top showing Buddha's sermon to his former mother Queen Maya in Tavatimsa Heaven. She is seated in front of Buddha, together with Indra depicted with green-hued skin, who is the Lord of Tavatimsa Heaven. The Cambodian caption below the scene translates as 'Buddha teaches Buddha's mother'. The lower register shows Buddha's descent back to earth, accompanied by green-hued Indra on his left, and Brahma on his right. Preah bot are rarely signed, however this painting is signed at centre left by the artist, the Cambodian inscription translating as 'Kumara Tes Sophul'. Pigments on cotton cloth, surrounded by a black cotton cloth border with two wooden dowels for hanging. The image 188 cm high, 87 cm wide. With cloth mount 203 cm high, 103 cm wide. Provenance: private German collection, originally acquired in Thailand.