Important Notice

Schist
12th Century

Hoysala Dynasty
Karnataka

Height: 32.5 in (82.6 cm)


The Hoysala Dynasty was founded by a tribal chief named Nripa Kama, and was a prominent South Indian kingdom. The dynasty is remembered for its beautifully carved temples at Belur, Halebid and Shravanabelagola, to name a few.

This stone standing figure from the region is that of a Chauri-bearer, or an attendant who comforts a deity. It would have once been part of a large group comprising a central figure with attendants on either side. The figure is tall and lithe with a handsome face. He has lively eyes, well shaped eyebrows and compressed lips. He holds a chauri or fly-whisk in his right hand. The figure is crowned and also wears large earrings. He is bare bodied, richly ornamented, and a sacred thread passes over his chest. He wears a thick ornate belt, delicately crafted. The figure stands with a slight bend of his waist to the right, with the left knee slightly thrust forward in a relaxed form. The nature of stone, stylization, and features act are typical of the rare and sought after Hoysala School.

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