Sculpture of Stegosaurus
Biodiversity and many kinds of species are common to be seen in Cambodia, the tropical country rich in nature. Natural water systems are everywhere throughout this country with large area of green forest as cool shelters for all life. Many strange animals were found alive in this region in the previous generation such as white elephant, singha, naga, large non-salty water fish in great lake, and so on. However, the discovery of stegosaurus in Khmer sculpture at Angkor City are so surprising since this kind of animal was lost in million years ago before the existence of human being on the earth. There is a wonder why Khmer sculptor left the stegosaurus sculpture on the wall of the ancient temple. How could they know this animal? Khmer people in Angkor Era are supposed to have the scientific ability to study all surrounding things that simply could be seen through the architecture and water system management in Angkor City. Therefore, it is almost true that Khmer people had found this animal’s bone somewhere that made them do the sculpture of stegosaurus on the wall of temple in Angkor City. Khmer people of Angkor Empire were considered to be smart in doing design and planning for building temple. Also, they were believed to be hard-working and serious, but kind and generous. When Khmer people focus on something, they often achieve it quickly and never to give up until the end of their life. Cambodian ancestors left brilliant legacy and great experience for young generation to conserve and find new thing to improve their life in Khmer style. In short, the sculpture of stegosaurus on the wall of Khmer temple shows that how hard Khmer ancestors worked and what their hope are for the Kingdom of Cambodia in new era. “Learn to be hard working and serious! Make your life change! Get what you want as quickly as you can!”
By: POK Panhavuth
