“This is a lintel made of sandstone. Its origin is Prasat Panchun, in Kampong Svay District, Kampong Thom Province, from where it was relocated for preservation at the National Museum.
Researchers have determined it is in the Ba Puon style of the 11th century, during the reign of King Udayadichawarman II, from the year 1050 to 1066 CE. This lintel has it center a figure of Krishna which is the avatar of Vishnu.
Krishna’s hands and legs are spread in a posture of tearing apart the six-headed Naga named Kaliya. On both side of Krishna’s head two Garudas, his vehicle, are spreading their wings in a flying posture. Vishnu wears a smile on his face, which signifies the joy he has in defeating the Asuras that he encountered during his lifetime. His body bears elements that look natural. So, do the elaborate patterns of the Sampot and the jewels that are characteristic of the Ba Puon style.”