STANDING GARUDA

Garuda is the vehicle mount of Lord Vishnu – one of the principal deities of Hindu trinity. As per Hindu iconography, Garuda is often depicted in part-human form with eagle beak like nose.

Intricately carved wooden panels like this were used to decorate chariots, this panel of Garuda is from South India. Temple cars or chariots also called as “Rathas” are vehicles used to carry idols of Hindu gods in processions on annual festival days. These are usually made of wood and in most cases have exquisite and intricate carvings on multiple set-in panels. The carvings can be images depicting stories from puranas, deities, mythical animals like Yali, ganas, dancers, real animals etc.

Rathas from different parts of India vary in style and size. These rathas decorated with flowers and jewels are pulled with thick ropes by hundreds of devotees. The anglo-Indian term “Juggernaut” was inspired by the large temple cars at Jagannath temple, Puri. The chariot at Thiruvarur, Tamil Nadu is said to be the largest – 29 metres tall and weighing over 300 tonnes. 

This handpicked  unique piece is sure to add radiance  and antique touch to your living areas.This panel can be further cleaned to reveal the deatils.