This is a sandstone Temple Guardian with the Lion-head. It originated from Banteay Srei temple in Siem Reap province. It is currently in the collection at the National Museum. Researchers have determined that it is in the Banteay Srei style and was sculpted in the year 967 CE, during the Angkorian period.
This is a human Guardian with a Lion’s head, it is one of the four types of guardians protecting the central sanctuary of the Banteay Srei Temple complex. They are giants or Yaksha, and the three creatures with human bodies and animal heads: monkey, Garuda, and the lion.
All sit with their left legs folded back-ward and their right knees raised. Their right hands hold a vajra, that representing a thunderbolt. Their mouths are open to expose fearsome fangs. Their bodies also reveal the evolution toward reality, as in the Prae Rup style. Bulging eyes and hairstyles all bear hallmarks of the magnificent Banteay Srei style. In general, they are the most well-carved pieces among all the statue of the Temple Guardian.