This is a sandstone statue of Garuda riding on a Naga head. It was taken from Siem Reap Province for preservation at the National Museum of Cambodia. Based on the characteristic and decorative elements, this sculpture is considered to belong to the Angkorian period, Bayon style, of the late 12th to early 13th century. Garuda spreads his wings wide with both feet standing on the Naga, as if he about to flight.
The mythical bird has a serious countenance with protruding eyes, and a large nose, but does not possess the beak. The vertical stripes on the head suggest feathers. Both wings were sculpted in the shape of human arms, that are raised to near the temple. The wings are carved in classes of leaves, that are vertically aligned.
Under the feet of Garuda is the Naga head, wearing a diadem. The Naga face with bulging eyes seem to suggest it is supporting the weight of Garuda. The artist carved Naga with a large nose, mouth open, and a short beard falling downward. These sculpting patterns are rare and can be found at only a few main temples in the Angkor region in Siem Reap Province.
This kind of statue, typically in the Bayon style, was often used to decorate guard rails along a moat or at the entrance of the temple.