Vishnu Riding on Garuda

The Cleveland Museum of Art catalogs Vishnu Riding on Garuda as sculpture (Eastern India, Bihar · 300s CE).

WHY IT’S INTERESTING

In a rare and powerful work from this period, Vishnu straddles his vehicle, the man-eagle called Garuda, here shown with a human head, wings outstretched, and tail feathers expanding like rays of light behind the head of the god. Garuda is the enemy of serpents, and a subjugated serpent is tied around his neck.

SERENDIPITYA little unexpected

FamiliarWeird

A CLOSER LOOK

The museum identifies this sculpture as schist.

The museum's collection notes: In a rare and powerful work from this period, Vishnu straddles his vehicle, the man-eagle called Garuda, here shown with a human head, wings outstretched, and tail feathers expanding like rays of light behind the head of the god. Garuda is the enemy of serpents, and a subjugated serpent is tied around his neck. His determined expression lends confidence that he will do anything in his power to support Vishnu in his accomplishments. Tiny worshippers kneel in veneration before the imposing figures. Each of Vishnu's hands holds an implement: discus, mace, conch, and citron fruit. On his chest is an auspicious symbol called the shrivatsa , or "ch

FOLLOW THE EVIDENCE

The Cleveland Museum of ArtVishnu Riding on Garuda

Original explanation based on the sources above. Images carry their own reuse terms.