Garuda Indonesia, Bali, 1800s polychromed wood, 28 1/2 inches (72.5 cm) high Museum purchase for the Frederic H. Douglas Collection 1956.8 Rotate Garuda

In Hindu mythology, Garuda, half-bird and half-man, is the mount for the god Vishnu. After Hinduism came to Bali in the 700s, it became integral to society and was often incorporated into daily life. This sculpture might have been built into the support beams of the palace of a Balinese prince, reflecting the prince’s desire to dedicate himself to the service and love of Vishnu.


To Southeast Asia