South Asia, Northeast India, Pala period, ca. 950 CE. An impressive stele from the Pala period of Northeast India, depicting a four-armed deity, most likely a representation of Lakshmi, the goddess of beauty, wealth, and prosperity, so finely hand carved from rich gray-green diorite. Lakshmi is the infamous consort (female aspect or partner) of Vishnu (the god of preservation known as the great maintainer). The female deity is seated in full lotus position upon a double lotus base, holding attributes in each of her four hands. Lakshmi typically is accompanied by the fly whisk and lotus. The lotus is associated with abundance and vital, life-rendering waters. A small stupa, which may in fact be a component of her fly whisk, is carved into the back mandorla to the right of the figure proper. The divinity is dressed elegantly, donning a half sari and necklace. The rich, contrasting combination of the deeply three-dimensional central figure raised from a rigorously incised, detailed background is quite typical of the Pala period. The stele form suggests that this piece was intended to be viewed from the front. Unfortunately, no structural temples have survived from this period. This said, it is fairly safe to assume that this sculpture would have been featured in a niche of a temple devoted to Vishnu. Attached to a museum-quality black resin/wood base. Size: 12-1/2" x 8-1/4" x 3-1/2" (31.8 x 21 x 8.9 cm)

Provenance: Ex-private Northern Colorado collection; acquired from Skinner Auctions, Boston, MA, Sale #2315, Lot #126, Sale Asian Works of Art, October 22, 2005

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#110392

Minor restoration to the right breast and chin. Overall very good.