21″ Garudan (Divine Mount of Vishnu) | Handcrafted Brass | Brown Finish

This 21-inch handcrafted brass sculpture depicts Garuda — the eagle deity and vahana of Lord Vishnu — standing upright in a namaskara posture, his palms pressed together at the chest in an attitude of complete surrender and reverence. The piece measures 21 inches in height, 12.5 inches in width, and 5.5 inches in depth, and weighs approximately 9,500 grams, giving it a substantial, authoritative presence.

The sculpture has been cast using traditional lost-wax techniques and finished entirely by hand. The face carries a commanding expression — wide-set eyes, a strong brow, and pronounced features consistent with classical Garuda iconography. The wings, spread outward from both sides of the torso, are rendered with layered feather detailing that required careful chiseling to achieve the depth visible across each individual row. The ornamental waistband, neck jewelry, armlets, and anklets have been worked with fine surface engraving, and the tiered crown follows the tall, tapered form seen in South Indian sculptural tradition. The figure stands on a carved circular base with an inscribed border, itself mounted on a stepped rectangular plinth.

In the Vaishnavite tradition, Garuda holds a position of singular importance. He is not merely a vehicle but a symbol of absolute devotion to Vishnu — his strength placed entirely in service of the divine. His form is understood to ward off negativity and is frequently installed at the entrance of temples and homes as a protective presence.

Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, has been the primary material for Indian devotional sculpture for centuries. It is valued for its structural integrity, the warmth of its natural tone, and its resistance to deterioration over time when properly maintained.

The finish on this piece is an antique brown patina, applied by hand to deepen the contrast between the surface planes and the engraved detailing. As with all handcrafted work, slight variation in tone, texture, and surface character from piece to piece is inherent to the process and reflects its authenticity.

This sculpture is suited for a home temple, a Vaishnavite worship space, an entrance placement, or a serious collector's acquisition.