This major temple is situated in the north-west corner of Cambodia, close to the Thai border. It is one of the most important monuments of Jayavarman VII, dedicated to his son Shridrakumara, and to four of his companions-in-arms who saved his life during a cruel battle. Built between the end of the 12th and the beginning of preservation, most of it being in ruins . The sculptural reliefs which survive are of high quality. Unfortunately, the site has not been accessible for several years, due to the political situation.
Only a few significant examples of reliefs are considered here, particularly the famous multi-armed Bodhisattvas. In fact, many images of Avalokiteshvara (233,234) decorate the walls of the Western gallery. They are shown with a single head but many arms. In the images with eight arms, a book, a rosary and a flask (kundika) are identifiable. They are flanked by worshippers, over whom celestial beings hover with lotuses and flower garlands.
There are also many reliefs of scenes from Hindu mythology and from the life of Javavarman VII. One relief- quite deeply carved depicts the story of Brahma, with his geese (hamsas). blessing an ascetic (rishi) who bows in front of him. While another plays the harp (236). Another panel tells the story of Rahu, the all-devouring mythical monster who had a predilection for eating the sun and the moon, thus causing eclipses, he is seen here fighting with prince (235) and devouring an ox, a man and his cart (237).
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