Indian Pilgrimage Figure of Lakshmi

One hand lifts a lotus bud, the other falls loose at her side, and the crown keeps going upward.

This pilgrimage figure of Lakshmi comes from Maharashtra, India, and dates to the 16th to 17th century or earlier, cast in brass. In Hindu imagery Lakshmi is closely tied to the lotus, generally read as a sign of purity and good fortune. She stands in a gentle sway on a lotus pedestal above a stepped base. Her left hand holds a lotus bud at shoulder height, and her right arm hangs relaxed. A tall tiered crown, beaded necklace and long patterned garment complete the figure. It is 3.75 inches high and 1.5 wide.

A goddess of plenty, delivered in a modest size.