Indian Pilgrimage Figure of Lakshmi

Hands on her hips, chin up, and not the least bit worried.

This pilgrimage figure of Lakshmi comes from Maharashtra, India, and dates to the 16th – 17th century or earlier. It is brass. Lakshmi is the Hindu goddess of prosperity and good fortune, and small cast images like this were generally made for pilgrims and home shrines. She stands on a lotus base above a square plinth, both hands resting at her hips. A pointed crown rises above a simplified face, and a necklace, girdle and a long sash are picked out in the casting. It is 3.5 inches high, 1.5 wide and 1 deep.

A confident stance, entirely appropriate for the goddess of good fortune.