This deeply carved sandstone relief features Garuda, the vehicle of the Hindu god Vishnu. It is depicted here in triumph over the ‘naga’ or spirits of the waters, which legend says he fought over for the nectar of immortality. He is depicted here in dynamic movement, bejewelled and wearing a tiered crown, grasping the tails of the two naga. This piece would probably have been positioned high up on a wall along with many other reliefs. Champa was one of the earliest regions in Southeast Asia to adapt Indian cultural influences as they had Hindu temples built as early as the late 4th century. Brick temples dedicated to royal ancestors, stone sculptures and precious metal images and jewellery, are amongst the important material legacy of Champa. Stylistic similarities with Indian, Chinese and regional traditions, are often seen, reflecting the exchanges that took place between Champa and these cultures.
