Experts from APSARA National Authority’s (ANA) Department of Monuments and Preventive Archaeology discover a sandstone guardian statue at Banteay Prei Temple in Siem Reap province on August 20. ANA
In a notable archaeological discovery, a sandstone “gate guardian” statue was found at the eastern entrance of the second gate of Banteay Prei Temple, located in Siem Reap province’s Angkor Thom district.
The statue, which is believed to be in the Bayon style, was uncovered by a team from the Department of Monuments and Preventive Archaeology of the APSARA National Authority (ANA) on August 20 during their efforts to clear rubble and other debris from the site.
The Bayon style, originating from the late 12th to early 13th century under King Jayavarman VII, is characterised by its intricate carvings, serene faces and representations of both Hindu and Buddhist iconography.
According to the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, Archaeologist Chea Sarith, who led the excavation, said the statue was buried under a pile of rocks and approximately 80cm of accumulated dirt.
“The statue was discovered to the right of the eastern entrance, and its current condition suggests it was likely buried due to the collapse of the upper structure of the gate,” Sarith explained.
Despite the damage sustained over the centuries, the statue remains largely intact, showcasing the artistry of the period.
A team member of ANA’s Department of Monuments and Preventive Archaeology displays the head of the statue found at Banteay Prei Temple. ANA
The gate guardian, standing at about 1.6m tall, had fallen westward and was broken into six pieces.
The statue's neck, left forearm, waist and both legs below the knees were fractured, and a staff that was originally part of the statue is missing.
The discovery has generated considerable interest among heritage conservationists and archaeologists.
The Angkor Heritage Protection Police, in collaboration with the ANA, formally handed over the statue to Chhouk Somala, head of the Art Registration Team at the Department of Preservation and Archaeology, during a ceremony at Banteay Prei Temple.
Archaeologists carefully excavate the statue that was broken into six pieces. ANA
“The sandstone gate guardian will now be stored at the Preah Norodom Sihanouk-Angkor Museum, where it will be preserved and studied further,” according to the heritage police.
The excavation and restoration team’s work at the site continues to reveal the hidden history of the temple, offering new insights into the architectural and artistic achievements of the ancient Khmer civilization.
