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'Rahwana Fights against Jatayu,' wall hanging

The immortalized battle between Rahwana (the evil ogre king) and Jatayu (the mighty eagle) inspires this wall hanging by Nengah Dika. Jatayu attempts to rescue Rama's wife Sita, but is unable to defeat the gigantic foe. Palm leaves provide a natural canvas for the dramatic scene, exemplifying the artistic style known as "lontar," which has flourished in Bali for generations. Framed by a pair of bamboo rods and strung together by sturdy filaments, the piece hangs gracefully, complementing the intricacy of the etchings. Makes a unique and meaningful decoration for any home interior.

In the Ramayana epic, Rama is the heir to the kingdom of Ayodya, but through treachery Rama's stepmother forces her husband to proclaim her own son as the new heir to the throne. Rama and Sita are sent into exile in the forest of Dandaka. There, Sita is kidnapped by Rahwana, the gigantic ogre king of Langka. Hanoman, the white monkey general, and Laksmana, Rama's brother, help Rama to free his sequestered wife. Unsure of Sita's faithfulness during their time apart, Rama subjects her to fire, proving her honor when she emerges unscathed.