The city of Lopburi has given its name to an artistic school inspired by Khmer art. Its temples saw the development of the prang – a tower-sanctuary in the shape of a corn cob, which symbolises the mythical axis of the world (Mount Meru) – and of statues which are delicate and highly expressive in style. Wat Phra Si Ratana Mahatat is typical of this style and also shows some European influence, reflecting the opening to the West brought about by King Phra Narai in the 17C.