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'Goddess Saraswati,' wall hanging

This traditional script portrays Saraswati, the central deity of the Hindu feminine trinity. Nengah Dika creates this intricate work with two hand-carved bamboo rods framing each section which in turn are connected by three sturdy filaments. The etching is done on lovely traditional Balinese "lontar" palm leaf. At the feet of the beautiful and talented Saraswati rests the swan, representing the natural openness needed for true creativity and learning. Lyrical inspiration exudes from her person and her four hands are destined to bear gifts to her devotees. She holds a "rebab" (a musical instrument symbolizing art), a "lontar," or palm book, (a symbol of knowledge), a "genetri," or bell, (portraying everlasting science) and a lotus water lily (the symbol of loveliness and purity.) Twice a year the Balinese pay special homage to Saraswati and her image is a common sight in their households. This piece, with its fine detail and superb craftsmanship, is seeped in cultural heritage and breathtaking in beauty.