A ‘COSMIC BIKER’ Carved in a Hindu Temple?
PraveenMohan・2 minutes read
The unique carving in a Bali temple initially resembling a bicycle actually depicts Dutch explorer W.O.J Nieuwenkamp riding it, with additional elements and a flower symbolizing ongoing local gratitude for his contribution. Nieuwenkamp's introduction of the bicycle to Bali in 1904 led to his figure being carved in the temple as a gesture of thanks, with flowers placed daily by locals as a token of ongoing appreciation.
Insights
- The unique carving in the Bali temple, initially thought to be a bicycle, actually depicts W.O.J Nieuwenkamp riding one, with intricate details like a giant flower instead of a wheel, a mongoose, and a dog, symbolizing his introduction of the bicycle to Bali in 1904.
- Nieuwenkamp's significant contribution to the temple's completion, marked by a substantial donation, led to his figure being immortalized in the carving as a gesture of gratitude from locals, who continue to show appreciation through daily offerings of fresh flowers.
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Recent questions
What is the unique carving in Bali temple?
A man riding a bicycle with intricate details.
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Summary
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Bali Temple Carving: Bicycle, Flowers, Gratitude
- The temple in Bali features a unique carving that initially appears to be a bicycle, but upon closer inspection, reveals intricate details like a giant flower instead of a wheel.
- The carving actually depicts a man riding a bicycle, with additional elements like a mongoose and a dog running underneath, solidifying the identification of the object.
- The man depicted in the carving is W.O.J Nieuwenkamp, a Dutch explorer who introduced the bicycle to Bali in 1904, making him a significant figure in the temple's history.
- Nieuwenkamp's contribution to the temple's completion, through a substantial donation, led to his figure being carved in the temple as a gesture of gratitude, instead of having his name inscribed on the walls.
- The presence of a fresh flower in the carving's ear symbolizes the ongoing appreciation from locals, who continue to place flowers daily as a token of thanks for Nieuwenkamp's kindness and generosity.
