Cambodia: Makara, Banteay Srei (Citadel of the Women), Angkor

Makara (Sanskrit: मकर) is a sea-creature in Hindu mythology. It is generally depicted as half terrestrial animal (in the frontal part in animal forms of elephant or crocodile or stag, or deer) and in hind part as aquatic animal, in the tail part, as a fish tail or also as seal. Sometimes, even a peacock tail is depicted. It is often portrayed protecting entryways to Hindu and Buddhist temples.

Banteay Srei (or Banteay Srey) is a 10th century Cambodian temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and is located to the north-east of the main group of temples at Angkor. Banteay Srei is built largely of red sandstone, a medium that lends itself to the elaborate decorative wall carvings which are still observable today. Banteay Srei is sometimes referred to as the 'jewel of Khmer art.'

Copyright:

CPA Media Co. Ltd.

Photographer:

David Henley

Credit:

Pictures From Asia

Theme:

ANCIENT ANGKOR