Antique Indonesian Style Standing Bronze Vishnu Garuda Statue - 32cm/13"

Antique Indonesian Style Standing Bronze Vishnu Garuda Statue - 32cm/13"

Measures (Height) 32cm/13"

An antique Indonesian style bronze Garuda, the mount of Vishnu, with wings spread wide in classic 13th century, Majapahit form. 

In the rich cultural landscape of Indonesia, the Garuda reigns supreme as a symbol of national identity, strength, and protection. Adorned with a trident and sword, standing triumphantly atop a snake, the Indonesian Garuda embodies profound symbolism and spiritual significance.

Important in both Hindu and Buddhist religions the Garuda is a large mythical bird with a wing-span of many miles, the bearer of Vishnu. Perhaps with a little 'poetic license' we are told that when the Garuda flaps it's wings hurricane winds arise that darken the sky and blow down houses.

In Indonesian mythology, the Garuda is a mythical bird-like creature that serves as the mount of Lord Vishnu in Hinduism. Known as "Garuda Pancasila" in Indonesia, it symbolizes the nation's foundation principles embodied in the Pancasila—the five principles that underpin the Indonesian state ideology. The Garuda is revered as a divine being associated with strength, courage, and sovereignty.

The depiction of the Indonesian Garuda is characterized by its majestic appearance, with large wings spread wide, sharp talons, and a regal countenance. The Garuda is depicted, here, holding a trident (trisula) and a sword (keris), symbolizing authority, power, and protection.

The trident (trisula) held by the Garuda symbolizes the power to uphold righteousness and dispel ignorance. It represents the ability to overcome obstacles and protect against malevolent forces. The sword (keris) signifies strength, courage, and the readiness to defend the nation against threats to its sovereignty and integrity. Together, the trident and sword exemplify the Garuda's role as a guardian and protector of the Indonesian people.

In Thai Buddhism, the Garuda is revered as a guardian deity and protector of Buddhist teachings. It is often depicted in temple murals, sculptures, and amulets, symbolizing protection against malevolent forces and obstacles on the path to enlightenment. Devotees may invoke the Garuda's blessings for protection, prosperity, and spiritual well-being through rituals and prayers.

One of the most striking features of this Indonesian Garuda is its depiction standing triumphantly atop a snake. The snake represents negative forces, chaos, and evil. By standing on the snake, the Garuda symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, order over chaos, and righteousness over injustice. This imagery conveys the Garuda's role as a protector and defender of the nation against external and internal threats.

The Indonesian Garuda stands as a powerful symbol of sovereignty, strength, and protection, embodying the nation's ideals and aspirations. Through its timeless symbolism and spiritual significance, the Garuda serves as a reminder of Indonesia's rich cultural heritage, resilience, and unity in diversity.

As Indonesians honor and celebrate the Garuda, may they draw strength and inspiration from its noble qualities, fostering unity, prosperity, and peace for generations to come.

The sepia patina and details of this piece are particularly appealing.

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