South Asia, India, ca. 8th to 9th century CE. An ethereal representation of Surya (also known as Savita), the Hindu god of the sun, finely carved in high and low relief on a stone stele. Note how the sculptor fittingly set Surya before a serene and round sun mandorla. The figure wears a magnificent crown, and boasts an elaborate coiffure with ringlets of hair cascading over the back of both shoulders. He is further adorned with earrings, armbands, a necklace, and meditation string that lays down the right hand side of the torso. A wonderful piece for its fine technique and artistry as well as its symbolic power! Custom wood block base. Size: 12" x 11" x 3-1/2" (30.5 x 27.9 x 8.9 cm); 17-1/2" (44.5 cm) high on base

Surya is among the most important Hindu deities according to the Vedas who has the power to dictate the seasons and grant (or forbid) the ripening of crops. Since the Indian economy has traditionally been grounded in agriculture, Surya is upheld as one of the most esteemed gods. Devotees chant the famous Gayatri Mantra everyday when the sun rises and offer water to the Sun god. Typically sculptural representations of Surya were created for temples devoted to other gods. The one exception is the sun temple at Konarak in Orissa devoted solely to Surya.

Provenance: Ex-Private Northern Colorado collection.

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#110393

Historical religious damage to the face. A large fragment as shown.