Indian Standing Figure of Parvati

Wide-eyed, gripping a rod across her lap.

Brass casters of Karnataka, South India, made this small figure of Parvati in the 17th century. Parvati, consort of Shiva, is a goddess commonly worshipped in homes and temples, and cast brass images like this were often kept in family shrines. The face is large and round with outlined eyes and a tall pointed crown. Both hands grip a horizontal bar. The upper body is bright, polished metal, while the base is darkened and crusted with age.

About five inches high. Five inches of goddess, with a patina to match.