Architectural Panel with Parrots

This 9th-10th century terracotta panel from Central Java features parrots in relief. It was used as temple ornamentation during the peak period of classical Javanese temple construction, the same era that produced Borobudur and Prambanan. Parrots symbolized divine messengers, prosperity, and the connection between earthly and celestial worlds in Hindu-Buddhist Javanese iconography.

These panels decorated exterior walls, gates, or interior chambers of Hindu-Buddhist temples. The sophisticated relief carving shows the technical skill of Javanese terracotta workers. The piece measures about 9 by 19 inches. It's at the Art Institute of Chicago.