Unknown Maker, Nepalese

The Hindu god Vishnu takes on different forms to maintain order in the world, often accompanied by divine animals. Here an elaborate carving of Shesha, a seven-headed serpent, frames Vishnu, singing praises from his many mouths. For Hindus, serpents protect and nourish the underground realms.

The necklace in the case below features a blue- winged hybrid figure of the mythical Garuda bird and Vishnu adorned with jewels. The half-man and half-bird motif, popular for amulets, protects the wearer from illnesses connected with water and serpents. The ritual dagger features Hayagriva, a wrathful horse-headed being who can destroy demons. Hayagriva is one of Vishnu’s avatars.

—WC