Mask Wood Garuda 37 cm

Product description Mask Wood Garuda 37 cm

This wooden wall mask of Garuda draws the eye with its striking gaze, a pair of curved black horns, and richly carved ornamental details. The combination of red, black, and gold accentuates its mystical appearance, while the horns reference traditional Himalayan depictions of this legendary guardian. The mask measures 37 cm in height and 40 cm in width, making it a striking decorative piece for a living room, entryway, or meditation corner.

Garuda – the legendary king of birds and mighty protector

Garuda is the legendary king of birds and a symbol of protection, courage, and freedom. In Hindu mythology, he appears as a powerful bird or a being with a human body and eagle-like features. He is the faithful companion of the god Vishnu, whom he serves as a vahana – a divine mount. In Nepalese Tantric Buddhism, Garuda is also venerated as a powerful protector against danger and negative forces. The horns, characteristic of certain Himalayan depictions, are associated with the form of the Tibetan mythical bird khyung.

Several important symbols are associated with Garuda:

• Protection – as Vishnu's companion, he is linked to the protection of the world and its cosmic order.
• Courage and strength – in legends, he overcomes even seemingly insurmountable adversaries.
• Freedom – his powerful flight is interpreted as a symbol of liberty and the transcendence of limitations.
• Victory over the nagas – he is the traditional adversary of mythical serpent beings, which in some depictions he holds in his beak or talons.

In Buddhist symbolism, Garuda is also associated with overcoming the three poisons of the mind – desire, hatred, and ignorance, which according to Buddhist teaching obstruct one's path toward spiritual liberation.

The legend of Garuda and the nectar of immortality

One of the most well-known legends about Garuda comes from the ancient Indian epic Mahabharata. It tells the story of his mother Vinata, who was tricked into slavery by serpent beings known as nagas. To free her, Garuda had to obtain amrita – the sacred nectar of immortality, guarded by the gods themselves. Despite facing nearly insurmountable obstacles, he set out on the perilous journey, obtained the nectar, and restored his mother's freedom.

Garuda's story is thus not merely a legend of supernatural power, but also one of courage, loyalty, and the determination to fight for the freedom of those we hold dear.

Wall mounting – a nail has been fitted into the back of the mask for this purpose.

Please note: The mask's headdress is decorated with small gemstones, one of which is missing.

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