Behold a work of rare splendour: an intricate, vintage Balinese sculpture of exceptional quality that whispers of myth and cosmic wonder.
Lord Vishnu, the preserver of balance and order, is depicted astride the celestial bird Garuda, his divine protector and herald. Beneath them, entwined in serpentine elegance, coils Naga, while the enigmatic cosmic turtle Bedawang Nala bears silent witness.
Crafted with astonishing detail, likely out of coromandel wood, this sculpture pulses with ancient energy as though each carved figure retains echoes of a forgotten legend.
The Myth Beyond the Mortal Eye
This carving draws its essence from both Hindu and Balinese cosmology, entwining two mythic traditions into one extraordinary artefact. Garuda, the winged guardian of the heavens, stands eternally vigilant against the serpentine forces of Naga. Yet in the depths of Balinese lore, beneath the surface of mortal awareness, lies Bedawang Nala, the vast turtle that supports the very axis of existence. It is said that Bedawang slumbers in the primordial waters, and when it stirs, the earth trembles—a reminder that life itself is built upon tenuous balance.
According to legend, Garuda’s quest was one of destiny and defiance. To free his enslaved mother, Vinata, Garuda was forced to retrieve the sacred amrita, the nectar of immortality, from the clutches of the gods. Though he succeeded, Garuda outwitted his captors and safeguarded the nectar from falling into the wrong hands. Since that moment, the winged guardian has been revered as a protector against deception and chaos—a vigilant force that watches from the realms unseen.
Meanwhile, Bedawang Nala, ever the silent sentinel, is said to bear the weight of cosmic creation upon its immense back. Some believe the turtle’s slow, deep movements ripple across the fabric of existence itself, shaping the tides of fortune and fate. Those sensitive to the hidden realms may sense an ineffable presence when gazing upon this sculpture, as if time and myth converge within its carved features.
Craftsmanship of the Ancients
This sculpture is a testament to the extraordinary skill of Balinese woodcarvers, whose mastery has been honed over centuries. Every detail, from the powerful wings of Garuda to the intricate scales of Naga, has been carved with exceptional precision and artistry. The craftsmanship showcases a remarkable understanding of balance, form, and movement, capturing the dynamic tension between the divine figures.
The sculpture’s surface is rich with texture, highlighting both the natural beauty of the wood and the meticulous attention to detail. The flowing lines and expertly layered composition suggest it was created by an artisan with an intimate knowledge of both traditional mythology and high artistic technique. This piece stands as a fine example of Bali’s revered woodcarving tradition—both a work of art and a cultural artefact that celebrates the island’s rich heritage.
Condition and Dimensions
This vintage sculpture is in superb condition, displaying a deep, rich patina that enhances its visual depth and character. Standing at an impressive 18 inches in height, it commands attention without overwhelming a space. The fine details remain sharp and well-preserved, a testament to the craftsmanship and durability of the piece.
There is a minor imperfection—a single feather on Garuda’s wing bears slight damage. However, this flaw is subtle and does not detract from the overall splendour of the sculpture. The affected area is shown in the accompanying images for complete transparency. Overall, this is a remarkably well-maintained example of traditional Balinese woodcarving, ideal for both display and collection.
