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Bas-Relief, West Outer Gallery, North Side, Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia 2020
Rakshasa, man-like demons, from Ravana's army attack the Rama's monkey warriors. The monkeys, armed only with fists, teeth, rocks, and stones, battle against rakshasas wielding arrows, swords, and spears. Despite their disadvantage, the monkeys often prevail by using magic words to neutralize their enemies' weapons. The Battle of Lanka relief at Angkor Wat is notably more emotional and unrestrained than other battle scenes. Artists captured the raw emotions and actions of the monkeys, depicting them in a manner unsuitable for human or deva portrayals. The musculature of the combatants in this relief is also more pronounced compared to the more refined depictions of men and gods in other panels. This freedom in artistic expression highlights the intensity and ferocity of the battle.