This is a sandstone statue of Varuna mounting on phoenix. It originated in Prasat Kok Daung in Siem Reap Province. It was transferred and registered into the collection of the National Museum of Cambodia in 1955. Researchers determined that it belongs to the Pre Rub style of the second half of the 10th century, Angkorian Era, during the reign of King Rajendravarman from 944 to 968 CE.
Varuna or god of rain is one of the ten beings guarding the ten directions. This being is designated for the western direction and he represents water. He is well versed in magic powers and uses a phoenix as his vehicle.
In this work, there are four he rides on, each fashion one of the four directions. Both arms are missing, broken half at the shoulders. Before it was damaged, the right hand of Varuna held the cord that is its attribute.