How were Southeast Asian Hindu temples decorated on their exteriors?

Southeast Asian Hindu temples were designed to symbolize the cosmic mountain, Meru, and their exteriors were decorated to reflect this sacred identity through a blend of Indian influence and distinct local aesthetics.12

The primary decorative elements included:

• Sculptural Reliefs: Exterior walls were frequently adorned with rhythmic moldings, foliage, and intricate scrollwork. Walls often featured niches housing relief figures of celestial beings, such as apsaras (celestial dancers), as well as depictions of Hindu deities and epic narratives.1234
• Materials and Techniques: While stone was the ideal medium, brick was also commonly used, particularly where stone was scarce. Brick structures were typically coated and sculpted with stucco to create elaborate decorative patterns.12
• Architectural Features: The exteriors were segmented by moldings and pilasters. Doorways often featured highly ornate lintels and pediments, which in some traditions, such as the Khmer, were designed to represent the rainbow bridge between heaven and earth.536
• Symbolic Ornamentation: In later periods, such as at Angkor Wat, relief carvings became increasingly sophisticated, depicting both mythological scenes and the earthly glory of the ruling kings.3