Suryavarman II

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Suryavarman II depicted in a bas-relief at Angkor Wat.

Suryavarman II (Paramavishnuloka) was king of the Khmer Empire from 1113 to 1150 and the builder of Angkor Wat, which he dedicated to Vishnu. He is generally ranked as one of the empire's greatest monarchs.

An inscription records that he came to power violently, springing atop the elephant of King Dharanindravarman I and slaying him like the bird god Garuda seizes a snake in its talons.

He reunited the empire after years of unrest and expanded its borders to cover much of present-day Thailand as well as parts of Vietnam and Malaysia, although all three of his campaigns against the Dai Viet failed. He also turned on and in 1145 briefly conquered his erstwhile ally, the Kingdom of Champa, but died when fighting against it in a later campaign. He was succeeded by Dharanindravarman II.

His reign also saw great advancements in art and architecture, and use of diplomacy. He presided over the construction of Angkor Wat, the largest monument ever built in the capital. He sent embassies to China.

For reasons unknown, Suryavarman II is the first Khmer king to be depicted in art. A bas relief in the south gallery of Angkor Wat shows him conducting court. He is seated on an elaborate wooden dais whose legs and railings are carved to resemble naga snakes. On his head is a pointed diadem, and his ears have pendants. He wears anklets, armlets and bracelets. His right hand holds what seems to be a small dead snake—-its meaning is unclear. His torso curves gracefully, his legs folded beneath him. The general image projected is one of serenity, and comfort with power and position. Kneeling attendants surround him. Overhead is a profusion of parasols, fans and fly-whisks, which in Angkorian society functioned as symbols of rank as well as implements of comfort. To the side are respected advisors, some with their hands over their hearts in loyalty.

Elsewhere in the reliefs, the king is shown in a warlike stance, standing atop an elephant. He holds a weapon in his right hand, a round shield in his left. Ranks of soldiers are lined up beneath him.

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