Hindu Goddess Themed Carved Wood Relief Panel, "Saraswati"

In this incredibly detailed wood relief panel from Bali's Ketut Sandi, the four-armed Hindu goddess Saraswati reigns supreme. The beautifully hand-carved wall sculpture depicts Saraswati surrounded by tropical flora, and features a number of symbolic items. The wood's rich grain is showcased by the light natural finish.

The four arms of Saraswati denote Her omnipresence and omnipotence. The two front arms indicate Her activity in the physical world, and the two back arms signify her presence in the spiritual world. A book in the rear left hand signifies that knowledge acquired must be used with love and kindness, to promote prosperity of mankind.A rosary in the rear right hand (representing ego) conveys that true knowledge, acquired with love and devotion, melts the ego and results in liberation (moksha) of the seeker from bondage to the physical world.The Goddess is shown playing a musical instrument that is held in her front hands, which represents the mind and intellect. Saraswati uses the swan as Her vehicle, indicating that one must acquire and apply knowledge with discrimination for the good of mankind.