The stone elephant statues of Do Ban Citadel (dating to approximately the second half of the 12th century) stand guard before the Ve Mon Gate (Inner Citadel) within the Hoang De Citadel National Relic Site in An Nhon Ward, An Nhon Town, Binh Dinh Province. These are exemplary Champa sculptures preserved within the ancient capital of Do Ban.
The male elephant statue is positioned on the left—when viewed from the outside—resting on a monolithic rectangular stone plinth. It is depicted in a dynamic pose: the left legs step forward, the head is held high, and the face is turned slightly to the left, conveying an air of alertness and majesty. The eyes are small and the ears are widely flared; both tusks are currently broken.
Around the elephant's neck are six layers of rope carved in relief, bound at the back of the head. The trunk hangs down in front, with its tip curving gently inward. The elephant's body is full and rounded, displaying powerful musculature, while the tail hangs straight down to the plinth.
The work combines realistic representation with the stylized techniques characteristic of Champa art. Its balanced composition, ability to convey movement, and sophisticated handling of form demonstrate the advanced stone-carving skills of Champa artisans during the Vijaya period.
The stone elephant statues of Do Ban Citadel are original, unique artifacts that stand as exemplary specimens of Champa stone sculpture. Despite the passage of centuries and various historical upheavals, both statues remain in their original locations, guarding the Ve Mon Gate of the Inner Citadel within the Hoang De Citadel complex. Highly valued by Champa culture experts for their historical, cultural, and artistic significance, these statues belong to the Thap Mam style—also known as the Binh Dinh style.
