This is Garuda, Vishnu’s vahana. He is kneeling on his right leg and his hands are in Anjali Mudra. The identification is based on the wings attached to his upper arms.

The tranquillity on his face prompted me to retain it and it occupies a premier spot on my (crowded) desk.

Normally you see Garuda standing in Samapada with his hands in Anjali mudra. But kneeling Garudas are not uncommon. Some examples of kneeling Garuda from my collection are Garuda kneeling before Vithoba, Garuda supporting Vishnu and Lakshmi, Garuda as a processional standard and Garuda on a pedestal. The photos below are in the same order.

The subject of this blog would have been on top of a handbell. The significant wear corroborates that conclusion.

The Vigraha is only 4 cm in height. It may be dated to the 18th-19th century. This is from the Deccan region. A delightful miniature.