The vahana (bearer) is a crucial aspect of every Indian
deity. They embody the qualities of the deva/devi who rides them, equal
in terms of veneration and status. Lord Garuda is the larger-than-life vahana
of none other than Lord Vishnu. He who is responsible for the projection
of all existence, within and without the bounds of our perception, is ferried
across the multitude of lokas (realms of existence) on the back of this trusty vahana.
Namaskaram Garuda, as could be seen in
this ornate wood sculpture, has the perfection of a man and the power of an
eagle. Limbs that harbour unspeakable strength are arranged in the namaskaram
samasthiti (straight-line position of the body). The large scapular
wings are of great vigour, but are now in rest to match the devotional stance
of the rest of Him.
A coat of shringar and sashes has been strategically
embossed against the raw musculature of the divine form, in basic but
well-defined pastel shades. Together with the serrations along the wings and
the halo, the same are highly characteristic of temple sculptures in the
ancient South.
On the unassuming brow of Lord Garuda sits a tapering crown. The
miniscule lotus petals engraved on the same are similar in style and proportion
to those on the pedestal. The unconventional silhouette of the same befits the
one-of-a-kind deity that stands thereon.
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