This work is a lintel, a horizontal panel that is usually placed across the top of a doorframe. It is made of sandstone. It was taken from Sra-Lao temple, Siem Reap province to include in the collection of the National Museum. In the Bonteay Srey style, it was created in the late 10th century of the Angkorian era, during the reign of King Rajendrawarman, from the year 944 to 968 CE.
This is a unique Bonteay Srey style sculpture, compared with other works of a similar kind. It’s unique because the carving are deep into the stone, allowing the details to stand out. This masterpiece is a testimony to artistic talent.
At the center of the lintel is an image of Vishnu standing on the shoulders of Garuda. His four arms, two reaching forward and two to the level of the temples, hold as attributes a chakra, a conch, a round object symbolizing the earth, and a stick.
Garuda, his vehicle is flying with wings spread and tail straight behind. The waist of Vishnu is encircled by jewelry studded belt. The figures of both Vishnu and Garuda are carved in a niche placed in the center of the lintel. There are images of bows on both sides of the frame and Garuda spitting out a three-headed Naga. Floral elements are spread beneath both bows.
The upper section of the lintel is adorned with 12 lively Garuda. In general, artists sculpted lintels in rectangular shapes to place as decoration across the top of temple entrances or false doors.