Central Java Island, Indonesia.
Bronze. H:13.25" (33.7 cm). W: 19.75" (50.2 cm), D: 9" (22.9 cm).
This spectacular early bronze oil lamp, in the shape of a Garuda, was use to supply the light that would cast shadows on the screen for the sacred wayang kulit
or shadow puppet shows used by the royal palaces of Central Java. The lamp would be positioned just behind the screen. The light was created by a wick in the
elaborate spout that extends from the Garuda's chest. The chain and hook was used to hang the lamp from above. There is a fish figure on the lid for the lamp oil.

According to Hindu mythology when the bird-like creature known as the Garuda (literally: eagle) first hatched from his egg, he was so powerful that he threatened
the very existence of the universe. It was only through devine intervention that he was covinced to reduce his size and power.

For price or additional information, please email your request, with inventory number and title description, to: majtribal@gmail.com.