This photograph shows a relief that can be seen on the base of the Shiva temple within the complex of the Hindu-Javanese Candi Prambanan, a Borobudur associated site built in the 9th century. The two other main temples within the compound are dedicated to the Hindu deities Vishnu and Brahma. A ‘Kalpatarus’ (mythical tree that fulfils desires in Hindu belief) within the two panels can be seen on the relief. Two birds perch on the trees while ducks rest beneath the canopy. Animals hold special significance in Hindu mythology, and are often seen as vehicles of the various Hindu deities. This photograph is part of a portfolio containing an extensive photographic survey detailing the Candi Prambanan. It was compiled by Dr. Isaac Groneman, a Dutch scholar of Javanese history and culture. He was assisted by pioneer Indonesian photographer Kassian Cephas, who was responsible for the pictorial documentation during the excavation of the site from 1889 to 1890.
