Bust of Garuḍa

The genius Garuḍa is depicted as an eagle-headed winged man devouring a Nāga in the form of a snake. The posture, torso front and head in profile, gives him a hieratic, imposing appearance. The snake, lying in Garuḍa's beak, is wrapped around his neck. He is wearing a pre-formed turban similar to those of the Bodhisattva. Bands of passementerie meet in front of the forehead, and the headdress is topped by a pleated frontal palmette. Hair falls down the back of his neck. His winged torso is covered with short, pointed feathers.