Indian Copper Head of Parvati

Bronze-gold cheeks, painted eyes, and a very steady gaze.

This head of Parvati was made by metalworkers of Karnataka, South India, in copper in the 19th century. Heads of this kind are commonly associated with household worship and shrine use, where they may be dressed or mounted. The face is broad and calm, with raised ears, large painted eyes and a red line across the lips. A narrow topknot crowns the smooth head. The metal has a light brass-gold tone, deeper in the creases, with some dark wear around the neck collar.

About 4 by 5 by 5 inches. A calm companion for a crowded bookshelf.