Important Notice

Red Sandstone
10th Century

Uttar Pradesh

Height: 34.3 in (87 cms)



Padmavathy is the most popular Goddess in Jainism. She is the protecting Goddess of Parsvanatha, the twenty third Tirthankara. According to Jain mythology, Padmavathy and her husband Dharnendra were the king and queen of snakes in their previous births. When a demon by the name of Meghmali tried to obstruct the penance of Parsvanatha with a heavy onset of rains, Dharnendra and Padmavathy are the ones who came to his rescue. Dharnendra formed a hood above the head of Parsvanatha whilst Padmavathy created a lotus to lift him from above the water. Jains still believe that Padmavathy rescues anybody who is in trouble.

The iconographic depiction of Padmavathy is that of a four armed figure holding specific attributes and seated with her left leg raised in lalitasana. This posture can be seen in this sculpture. Her upper right hand bears a goad whereas her upper left hand holds a noose. Her lower left hand can be seen holding a citron (fruit). The lower right hand which is held in abhaya mudra also holds a rosary between the fingers. She is seated on her vahana, the kukutta-sarpa, a serpent with the head of a rooster. A seven hooded serpent forms a canopy above her head. She is also known as Kamalavati, or the one with a red complexion. It is quite a coincidence that the colour of this stone also happens to be reddish.

This sculpture is large and has a great three-dimensional effect. The face has a reassuring smile. The fingers holding the attributes have been carved in a delicate manner. One can't fail to notice the way in which the toes of the raised foot curve inwards naturally. Two attendants can be seen seated on the floor in obedience on either side. The exceptionally rare subject, great quality, depth and age make this sculpture a very important work from the Central Indian region.

Jainism

As per historical records, Jainism would most certainly be the oldest faith in the world. The religion preaches a path of non-violence. The aim of the religion is to guide people towards the path of enlightenment.

According to believers Jainism has always existed and will always continue to do so. Jains believe that in each half cycle of time in this universe twenty four Tirthankaras are born. Parsvanatha, the twenty-third Tirthankara is the only one who can be dated reliably. He is believed to have lived in the 9th Century B.C. The most influential preacher was Vardhamana Mahaveera, the 24th Tirthankara who spread the religion far and wide.

The manner in which the religion has spread to almost every nook and corner of India is noteworthy. One can see sculptural representations of Jainism in almost every state and from various times.

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