Description:
This artefact from Cambodia was created c. 1000 CE, and was “placed on terraces and stairways to guard the central pyramidal structure that represented Mount Meru, the residence of the gods at the centre of the Hindu world”. “The characteristic full, frontal pose and upright stance lend the figure a composed regal air, while the elaborately carved demonic head and patterned chest shows the Javanese influence so important in Khmer culture.”
It seems that there is a huge significance for the Cambodians to think of lions as sacred guardians to guard their sacred religious places and perhaps ward off evil. Perhaps lions being known as the king of the jungle and are also very fierce animals made them two possible reasons that the people chose lions to be the guardians of their gods since they would be able to ward off any evil beings. It may also be used to show how divine their gods are, and how much reverence the people have for their gods, as lions are symbols of power and might. Then this would mean that their gods are so powerful and mighty that even lions are their guardians. This can also show how their religion is respected by the people there , and how much it has been incorporated in their lives.













