Indian Kali Pilgrimage Figure

Many arms, a trident, a sword. Kali does not arrive unprepared.

This Kali pilgrimage figure is from India, 18th century, cast in brass. Kali is the fierce form of the Hindu goddess, a destroyer of evil, and small portable images like this are understood to have traveled with worshippers on pilgrimage or stayed in household shrines. She stands on a lotus-petal platform beneath a tall arch crested with scrolls and flames. A multi-hooded serpent canopies her crowned head. Her many arms spread outward holding weapons, the trident clearest of all. Seven inches high.

Small enough to carry. Serious enough to keep close.