Unknown, Traditional Indonesian Sculpture of a Winged Deity in Volcanic Limestone, 1980s, Stone

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Traditional Indonesian sculpture of a winged deity in volcanic limestone. Height: 60cm; Base dimensions: 27cm x 29cm; Maximum width (wings … Read more Traditional Indonesian sculpture of a winged deity in volcanic limestone. Height: 60cm; Base dimensions: 27cm x 29cm; Maximum width (wings spread): approximately 45cm; Weight: approximately 80kg. Balinese sculpture in volcanic stone or limestone, representing a winged figure seated facing forward. The torso is upright, the legs folded beneath the body in a stable and centered posture. The wings, fully extended on either side, structure the silhouette and frame the figure. The face has calm and symmetrical features, an introspective expression. The head is adorned with a headdress sculpted in relief, composed of plant and geometric motifs. The torso is decorated with stylized jewelry, necklaces, and pectoral ornaments. The hands hold a circular vessel, treated as a central element of the composition, possibly intended to hold or circulate water. The surface is dense, richly decorated with floral and ornamental motifs. The stone displays a brown to dark gray patina, with deposits and superficial erosion indicating prolonged outdoor exposure. An authentic local sculpture, found in Bali in a large outdoor garden. The surface, weathered by the elements, has a natural patina and contains traces of soil, lichen, and other natural elements. Stone sculptures play a significant role in Balinese daily life and spirituality. They are often found in domestic gardens, courtyards, or water temples. They are generally carved from volcanic limestone, which quickly becomes covered in moss and lichen in the tropical climate—an aesthetically desirable evolution that integrates the sculpture into a living, organic cycle. This type of sculpture is part of the Balinese tradition of incorporating protective and symbolic figures into architectural spaces. The winged figures evoke intermediary entities between the human and divine realms, similar to certain representations of apsaras or celestial guardians. Their presence in gardens, temples, or near pools contributes to the spiritual structuring of the space. The vessel held by the figure reinforces the association with water, a central element in Balinese Hinduism, linked to ritual purification and the circulation of tirta, sacred water. These sculptures play an aesthetic, functional, and symbolic role, embodying protective forces and helping to maintain the balance between the visible and invisible dimensions of the environment. See less