A Shimmering Giant

This yak is actually small in size, but considered to be a giant in Thailand. Commonly placed at the gates of Buddhist temples throughout Thailand as guardians, this is one of several protecting Prasat Phra Thep Bidon - the Royal Pantheon. The level of detail is simply exquisite.

You see one of these, and it's like - cool, super detailed. Someone went through a lot of trouble to make this. Then you see that there are innumerable yakshas throughout the temple and it's all the more impressive. It's easy to get lost in looking at the larger figures and buildings that make up the temple, but taking a few moments to examine the details up close is its own rewarding experience.