Indian Bronze Garuda Ceiling Chain (late 1800s or early 1900s)

This unique piece has hooks above and below the thick chain and sculptured form of Garuda. A protector with the power to swiftly travel anywhere, Garuda, depicted in giant bird form ready to fly, is a Hindu god but also pertinent in Buddhist and Jain faiths.
 
Based on online image research, this portrayal of Garuda is from the late 1800s, and we suspect this was purchased by the Burr sisters during their travels in the early 1900s.
 
While we were unable to find anything similar to the chain online that did not end in a sculptured oil or other lamp fixture, the use of this to hook onto a ceiling hook above makes sense as the sculpture does not allow it to hang flat against the wall. Below may have hung oil lamps, singing bird cages, chandeliers, other lighting fixtures.
 
The piece, which we believe is bronze, has a strong patina. We have not polished it or attempted to clean it. The upper hook has some debris stuck on it (easily removed we believe), there is dust or dirt visible in crevices and between the bird’s body and its tail. We can try to clean it on request.
 
Warning: Our photos show different colors of this item because it changes color in different lights. 
 
H 20” x L 6 1/8” x W 2 ¾”
2.2 lbs
 
Disclaimer: We have tried to make sure colors shown in photos are representative of the real colors of each item. We have tried to identify all imperfections in descriptions, but we may have missed some. If you are unhappy with your purchase, let us know.