Tempelwachter van Candi Singosari. 1900 - 1935

This stereoscopic photograph by Neville Keasberry captures a guardian figure at Candi Singosari, its squat posture and protective stance embodying a timeless vigilance. The guardian figure, with its robust form, recalls ancient protective deities found across cultures. Consider the gargoyles of Gothic cathedrals or the sphinxes of Egypt. These figures share a common purpose: to ward off malevolent forces and safeguard sacred spaces. This pose echoes in the protective gestures of bodhisattvas in Buddhist art, reflecting a deep-seated human desire for safety and order. The guardian’s features, though weathered, exude an air of unwavering resolve, tapping into our primal instincts for security. Such imagery persists, evolving through centuries, manifesting in contemporary symbols of protection. It highlights the enduring power of cultural memory and its ability to shape our perceptions, reminding us that the past is always present, subtly influencing our fears and hopes.