Artwork Page for Pair of Deity Earrings with Vishnu on Garuda (front) and chepu (monster mask) (back)

Details / Information for Pair of Deity Earrings with Vishnu on Garuda (front) and chepu (monster mask) (back)

Pair of Deity Earrings with Vishnu on Garuda (front) and chepu (monster mask) (back)

1600s or 1700s

Nepal, Kathmandu Valley

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Medium
Gold set with precious and semi-precious stones
Measurements
Overall: 9.5 x 6.9 cm (3 3/4 x 2 11/16 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Wade 1915.338
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
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Did You Know?

These larger-than-life earrings would hang on a deity statue in a Nepalese temple, rather than worn by a person.

Description

A green Vishnu with four arms, each holding his attributes of discus (his upper right hand), mace (upper left), lotus (lower right), and conch (in pearl, lower left) rides on a coral Garuda with lapis wings, arms outstretched. The blue figures on either side are probably celestial beings praising him in dance postures, with one leg crossed over the other. On the back sides, delicate filigree floral scrolls form the backdrop of a protective mask popular in the Nepal; a sun over a crescent moon are inlaid above his head.
A pair of teardrop-shaped gold earrings depicts a central coral-red winged figure supporting a small green figure above. On either side, large blue figures curve along the inner frame. The ornate gold borders are set with rows of rubies and emeralds. A clear stone hangs from the bottom of the earring on our left, while a ruby-red drop hangs from the earring on our right.

Pair of Deity Earrings with Vishnu on Garuda (front) and chepu (monster mask) (back)

1600s or 1700s

Nepal, Kathmandu Valley

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