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Nature Divinity (Yakshi) with Dwarf Hermaphrodite

c. 100 BCE
(185–78 BCE)
terracotta
Overall: 18 cm (7 1/16 in.)
Gift of Adrienne Minassian by exchange 1972.259
Location: not on view
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Description

Nature divinities, or yakshis, are associated with the life-giving forces of plants, so her headdress includes a dramatic array of leaves and flowers. Her companion, a female figure with male genitalia, is a dwarf who has connections with the fecundity of the earth. Terracotta figurines were often venerated in domestic shrines for the ongoing prosperity of the family.
Nature Divinity (Yakshi) with Dwarf Hermaphrodite

Nature Divinity (Yakshi) with Dwarf Hermaphrodite

c. 100 BCE

India, Shunga period (185–78 BCE)

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