Giant gargoyle-like statue stirs controversy in Bangkok

A giant statue of the deity Kru Kai Kaew, regarded by some as a 'god of wealth' but by others as alien to Buddhism, is pictured in Bangkok. Photo: AFP

A huge black statue of an emaciated, winged figure with golden fangs and scarlet talons glares down on a busy Bangkok street, its sudden appearance triggering alarm and calls for its removal.

Bangkok authorities have ordered an investigation after the 5m-tall Kru Kai Kaew statue - a bald, gargoyle-like man sitting cross-legged - was installed earlier this month outside the four-star Bazaar Hotel.