What historical examples used teak in temple carvings depicting mythological nature spirits?
Teak wood has been a prized material for temple carvings across Southeast Asia, particularly in depicting mythological nature spirits. One notable example is the 12th-century Angkor Wat in Cambodia, where teak carvings of *apsaras* (celestial nymphs) and *devas* (nature deities) adorn the temple walls. In Thailand, the Wat Phra Kaew temple complex features intricate teak panels illustrating *yakshas* (guardian spirits of forests) and *nagas* (serpentine water deities). Similarly, Javanese temples like Borobudur in Indonesia showcase teak reliefs of *kinnaras* (half-bird, half-human spirits) symbolizing harmony with nature. These carvings not only reflect spiritual beliefs but also highlight the durability and artistic versatility of teak wood in sacred architecture.
