Door guardian at Banteay Srei. Originating in the 10th century, this masculine form became a powerful symbol of protection and care. A god in the form of a man, Dvarapala stood guard at the temple preserving its safety.
In the 1970s to 1990s, the Khmer Rouge and poverty damaged the gods in stone while land mines and civil war maimed flesh and bone. Landmines represent a threat to life and livelihood while the Red Cross symbolizes hope, health and reconstruction.
Recently, I saw a living incarnation of Dvarapala standing on Street 240. The posture and strength of this man, despite his artificial leg, called to my mind the power of Angkor and the damage our Kingdom has sustained.