Indra, King of the Gods' Heaven
Artist/maker unknown, Nepalese
Geography:
Made in Nepal, Asia
Period:
Malla Dynasty (1200-1769)Date:
c. 1200Medium:
Mercury-gilded copper alloy with spinel rubies, rock crystal, and turquoiseDimensions:
15 7/8 × 9 3/4 × 8 1/2 inches (40.3 × 24.8 × 21.6 cm)Curatorial Department:
South Asian ArtObject Location:
1994-148-596Credit Line:
Stella Kramrisch Collection, 1994
Made in Nepal, Asia
Period:
Malla Dynasty (1200-1769)Date:
c. 1200Medium:
Mercury-gilded copper alloy with spinel rubies, rock crystal, and turquoiseDimensions:
15 7/8 × 9 3/4 × 8 1/2 inches (40.3 × 24.8 × 21.6 cm)Curatorial Department:
South Asian ArtObject Location:
Currently not on view
Accession Number:1994-148-596Credit Line:
Stella Kramrisch Collection, 1994
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buddhism [x] hindu [x] lalitasana (relaxed seated pose) [x] third eye [x]Explore the Collections
Indra, an ancient deity who reigns over the heaven of the gods in Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain mythology, is distinguished by his horizontal third eye. Indra is particularly popular in Nepal, among both Buddhists and Hindus. Here the god wears a close-fitting lower garment incised with subtle floral decorations. The modeling of the sculpture is similar to works made in northeastern India under the Pala and Sena dynasties (about ninth through twelfth centuries). This stylistic resonance reflects the frequent interaction between India and Nepal through Buddhist and Hindu artisans and pilgrims.
