Artwork Page for Carved Bracket

Details / Information for Carved Bracket

Carved Bracket

1600s

South India, probably Madurai

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Medium
Ivory with traces of pigment
Measurements
Overall: 10.2 cm (4 in.)
Credit Line
Bequest of Edgar A. Hahn 1972.282.2
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
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Did You Know?

These composite beasts are called yali or vyala.

Description

Composite creatures with the body of a lion, tusks and trunk of an elephant, and horns of an antelope are standard elements of medieval Indian architecture and furniture. Traces of pigment indicate that these ivory furniture facings were brightly painted.
A vertical ivory carving depicts a mythical creature with traces of dark pigment. Facing left, the creature features a bird-like head with a large eye and curved beak. Detailed ridges texture the neck, while scroll patterns adorn the limbs. The figure is positioned between a rectangular block at the top and a stepped base at the bottom. Smooth surfaces highlight the intricate, deeply incised details of the mythical form.

Carved Bracket

1600s

South India, probably Madurai

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