The Emblematic Bayon
Copyright Tan and Trev 2005
The Bayon, in the centre of Angkor Thom, held our interest for hours as we wandered around the temple base and the its towers.
Copyright Tan and Trev 2005
Our guidebook says: "It was built in the 13th century as the state temple of king Jayavarman VII, and stands at the centre of his capital".
It is perhaps best known for its it most distinctive feature -- the multitude of smiling faces on the towers which rise up to its central peak. But there is plenty to see apart from them.
Copyright Tan and Trev 2005
Through doorway to doorway, wandering around inside is a little like a labyrinth, with surprising variety of structures inside.
Copyright Tan and Trev 2005
At each turn there seemed to be a mix of building styles and forms.
Copyright Tan and Trev 2005
All in varying states of repair.
Copyright Tan and Trev 2005
Which, in turn, leave us to wonder about the remarkable well preserved (or is it repaired) state of the narrative reliefs found on the inner walls.
These were wonderful bas-reliefs which depict an unusual combination of mythological, historical and mundane events.
Copyright Tan and Trev 2005
These highly-detailed narrative reliefs on the walls depict scenes from daily life, of kings paraded under banners, and of staff toiling for the kingdom.
Copyright Tan and Trev 2005
There is also incredible detail in the square pillars of the galleries which are decorated with dancing figures which it think might be apsaras (heavenly nymphs).
Copyright Tan and Trev 2005
But as mentioned earlier, its most distinctive feature is the multitude of smiling faces on the towers which rise up to its central peak.
Copyright Tan and Trev 2005
The selection of images in today's post are all from the ground-level around Bayon. That is very deliberate.
Copyright Tan and Trev 2005
In coming weeks a further blog will show views from inside the towers -- and closer to the peaceful expression of the stone faces. Whereas today's selection of snapshots is deliberately framed as a reminder to folk about the beauty and wonder of this structure as seen when approacing it.
Copyright Tan and Trev 2005
posted by Unknown at 7:20 PM
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