Bonavy Som with her three sons: (left to right) Douglas, Nikolas, & Beauregard. They are celebrating Bonavy’s birthday at Seafood Cove in Westminster, CA 2020.
Left to right: Bonavy Som’s mother, Naly Men, Bonavy, Bonavy’s sister, Bony, and Bony’s daughter, Lisa. They are celebrating Cambodian New Year in North Hollywood, CA 1990.
Close up of the bas-relief on outer exterior of Angkor Wat depicting Battle of Kurukshetra, which is based on the Hindu epic Mahabharata. (Photo courtesy of Bonnie Lowenthal)
This giant statue of the divine Hindu god Vishnu, known as Ta Reach in Cambodia, is located inside the West Gate of Angkor Wat. Considered one of the most powerful local spirits, or Neak Ta, the statue is cared for and offerings are made by Cambodians (and visitors) for blessings and to alleviate worries. (Photo courtesy of Bonnie Lowenthal)
On the walls of Angkor Wat are bas-reliefs that vividly portray scenes from everyday life, ceremonial practices, and agricultural activities. The intricate carvings and craftsmanship are what makes Angkor Wat an architectural wonder with significance to the cultural history of Cambodians.
