symbolic sculpture

Nyoman Indrawati Subrata of the Subrata Family delicately carves the heroic royal couple of the Hindu epic, the Ramayana. The epic poem tells the story of Rama, the seventh incarnation of the god Vishnu, who eventually wins Sita in marriage. Displaced as rightful heir to his father's throne, Rama goes into exile with Sita and his brother Lakshmana. Sita is later abducted by the demon-king Ravana. Rama, with the aid of the monkey general Hanoman, searches for Sita and slays Rawana, rescuing her. Rama then regains his throne. Rumors and gossip accuse Sita of adultery during her captivity. Although innocent, she bears Rama's twin sons in exile, sheltered by the hermit Valmiki, the author of the poem. Many years pass, but eventually, Rama and Sita reunite in love. This elegant sculpture by Nyoman Indrawati Subrata of the Subrata Family was created in suar wood which is responsible for the richness of color that can be seen in this masterpiece.

From Suresh and Devender Garg, this finely detailed sculpture honors Lord Ganesha. The beloved man-elephant, Ganesha is the son of Shiva and Durga, and has the power to keep under control the occult forces that bring disaster upon humankind. He holds an axe and lash to protect the world from evil and disaster. On his third hand he holds his favorite dessert, and with his right hand he blesses the faithful. The Hindu deity appears on a lotus throne surrounded by mice, his vehicle to transcend the different plains of life as symbol of the mind's power.

Jesus blesses all humanity as he reveals his Sacred Heart, a symbol of his everlasting love. Javier Ramirez sculpts the portrait of Jesus as a cedar relief panel, which he carves by hand. Painting with oils and bronze leaf accents, Ramirez masterfully conveys an expressive work.

A hook at the back facilitates wall display.

Ganesha sits on a lotus throne – a symbol of divinity. Carved by hand from suar wood, the Beloved Lord of Wisdom holds an axe and a lash to defend mankind from evil. Wayan Rendah portrays the beloved god, son of Siwa and Durga, two of the most powerful deities in the realm of Hindu belief. His clothing and human posture evoke a sense of nobility while his elephantine face speaks of kindness and generosity. Rendah's artistry gives a distintively Indonesian interpretation to Ganesha.

The goddess Sri symbolizes fertility and oversees the planting of rice paddies. In Bali, most of the populace are farmers, so Sri is a very important deity with religious holidays devoted espedcially to her. Dewi (goddess) Sri represents for some carvers a source of infinite inspiration, due to her artistic and spiritual values. This piece is meticulously hand-carved from crocodile wood by master artisan Wayan Rendah.