Antique temple mask "Garuda." Metal, gilded. Tibet, 20th century.Garuda is an immortal king, a divine confidant of the god Vishnu. He had a human body, arms and legs, red wings, claws, and a bird's head.Garuda is a horned sacred bird. Amulets and charms were decorated with silver and gilding. Garuda is considered the progenitor and totem of the ancient Zhangzhung civilization, which predated the Tibetan people. Garuda is the patron of warriors and strong-willed people.