Garuda is Vishnu’s vahana (vehicle). Normally, a standing figure, with hands folded at the chest level, in the Anjali (offering oneself to God) mudra.

Beak-shaped nose and stretched wings attached to the back of his hands and human body are his distinguishing features.

These Ganga Jamuna, bimetallic icons are rare. This would have been a part of a set consisting of Vishnu, Sridevi and Bhudevi. This is probably from North Karnataka and may not be older than the 18th century.

Garuda is usually installed opposite to the main shrine of the god in the Vishnu temple, not different to the way the Nandi shrine relates to Siva in a temple.

This Garuda is well sculpted piece, and the details are just fantastic. It is 13.5 cm tall and is quite heavy. The complete set would have been even more impressive.