Lot 40
 
Quick Zoom
Bhudevi    


Granite
13th Century

Chola Dynasty
Tamil Nadu

Height: 48 in (122 cm)


The powerful Cholas ruled from the 10th to the 13th centuries. They occupied a large area around Tamil Nadu and were some of the greatest art patrons in Indian history. The Chola kings had great taste and rewarded their craftsmen well. The great stone and bronze sculptures produced during their time stand unsurpassed till today.

Bhudevi, or mother earth, is one of the two consorts of Vishnu. The other consort Sridevi represents material wealth and prosperity. Bhudevi is concerned with the spiritual side and signifies fertility. As per mythology, Sita, the wife of Rama, was the daughter of Bhudevi also known as Bhoomidevi.

This beautiful sculpture from the late Chola dynasty shows Bhudevi standing in her usual tribhanga posture. She wears a slim crown with elaborate detailing. Her facial features are distinctly visible. A radiant smile befits the subject. The body is well modeled and proportionate. The pendant hand is held in a very casual manner. The right hand is held up and bears a lotus bud. The body is slender and the hip has a lovely feminine curvature. The right knee is bent forward resulting in a slight upward push to the left hip. The lower garment being a fine fabric clings to her body with the folds flowing down symmetrically. The beauty of this sculpture lies in its rhythmic flow. The posture is calm and comfortable. In spite of its age, the sculpture is in very good condition. Natural weathering has further added to the beauty of the piece. This sculpture is a fine example of the aesthetic sense of the stone carvers of the great Chola Dynasty.




Other similar works in: this auction  |  entire site



  Lot 40 of 55  

INDIAN ANTIQUITIES & MINIATURE PAINTINGS
25-26 APRIL 2012

Estimate
Rs 9,00,000 - 12,00,000
$18,000 - 24,000

Winning Bid
Rs 9,00,600
$18,012
(Inclusive of Buyer's Premium)










 



Bidding is permitted in Indian rupees only. US dollar values shown, if any, are for reference.
Need help? Please check our guides on How to Bid. Auction Tips and FAQs.
Email [email protected], [email protected] Tel: (91 22) 2432 2898/2436 4113