Iconography of the temple of Bakong, from its foundation up to the thirteenth century. Bakong is the oldest known Cambodian mountain-temple dedicated to the royal cult. Founded in 881, it presents a pantheon dominated by Shiva. This is suggested both by its architectural layout and by its sculptures. Around 1150, a restoration campaign introduced sculpted decoration related to the cult of Vishnu. At the end of the twelfth century, iconography of Buddhist inspiration made its appearance. A violent, but brief Shivaist reaction followed, after which the Small Vehicle prevailed, surviving up to the present day. Thus we see how succeeding Khmer monarchs intervened at Bakong, each one leaving the mark of his own personal beliefs.Alvares Sharon. ...