Buddha’s walking stance is unique to Southeast Asia. It recalls Buddha as a wanderer and missionary teacher. The left hand is raised in the “do not fear” position (mudra).

During the 13^th and 14^th centuries, representations of Buddha changed in an attempt to portray an idealized conception of an enlightened being. The earlier square-face, Khmer style became long and oval; the eyebrows highly arched and the nose elongated; the lips pressed together; and the chin represented by a single, incised curve. The flame-like emblem rising from the ushnisha (bump of wisdom, on top of head) represents Buddha’s enlightenment.