The
Hindu deity Vishnu is considered the All-Pervading essence, that sustains through
all cycles all creations and destructions. He is that which sustains, governs
and develops the Universe. Through the rise and fall of universes and Vishnu is
said to come to Earth as multiple avatars. In the future it is said that Vishnu
will manifest as Kalki, the emanation eternity time at the end of this cycle the
Kali Yuga. Garuda is the mount of the creator god Vishnu. He is traditionally
depicted as having a golden body, white face, red wings, and an eagle's beak and
wings but a man's body. He wears a crown on his head. He is ancient and is known
to have extreme martial prowess and superlative skills of negotiation and bargain.
This
South Asian antique bronze gives depth to it subject matter. Garuda’s wings are
flourished full, each feather in place, below him defeated, hanging in the grasp
of his claws are the snakes that Garuda outwitted (with the help of Indrah), thus
saving the precious amrita (elixir of immortality). Above Garuda Vishnu sits in
half lotus resonate in peace and contemplation. Four-armed, he holds a lotus,
mace, conch and chakra (wheel). Worlds and universes are born and die but this
deity is still in emptiness and fullness as forms and form itself arise from within
him. This bronze, flavored by time is in very good condition. (SD)
