Indian Pilgrimage Figure of Lakshmi

Two lotuses rise on either side like raised torches, and her face has been worn almost smooth.

This pilgrimage figure of Lakshmi comes from Maharashtra, India, and dates to the 12th to 16th century or earlier. It is brass. Lakshmi is generally shown holding lotus flowers, a symbol of purity and abundance. She stands with four arms on a stepped square pedestal, her upper hands lifting lotus blooms on short stems. The lower right hand opens outward and the left rests near her hip. A tall crown rises above a softened face, and pleated drapery falls to her feet. Traces of red show in the recesses. It is 4 inches high and 2 wide.

Time has softened her features, though not her bearing.