Encyclopedia of Buddhist Arts

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Kinnari

CHINA; Ming dynasty (1368–1644); Gilt copper alloy; H: 36.1 cm; National Museum of China, Beijing
The kinnari has the head of a human and the body of a bird. It is a heavenly musician in Hindu mythology and was adopted to become one of the Eight Classes of Dharma Protectors in Buddhism.
　 This kinnari has a five-leaf crown, earrings, necklaces, and a flowing stole. It is holding its hands in a mudra. There are wings behind the arms and claws at the feet, and the lower body is made of feathers. Kinnaris are often seen decorating the roofs of Tibetan monasteries for protection and the avoidance of calamities.

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