Indian Pilgrimage Figure of Lakshmi

A lotus bud in one hand, the other hanging loose, as if the morning has only just begun.

This pilgrimage figure of Lakshmi comes from Maharashtra, India, and dates to the 16th to 17th century or earlier. It is brass. Lakshmi, goddess of prosperity, is commonly shown with a lotus, a flower long associated with purity and abundance in Hindu imagery. She stands on a round lotus pedestal, slightly swayed at the hip. Her skirt falls in fine pleats, and a looped crown sits high on the head. The bronze-brown surface is smooth and worn at the high points. It is 1.25 inches wide, 1 deep and 2.75 high.

Composure, at a scale that fits a pocket.