Artwork Page for Male Fertility Divinity, Possibly Shiva

Details / Information for Male Fertility Divinity, Possibly Shiva

Male Fertility Divinity, Possibly Shiva

c. 120–200 CE

Northern India, possibly Mathura, Kushan period

Medium
terracotta
Measurements
Overall: 17.3 cm (6 13/16 in.)
Credit Line
Andrew R. and Martha Holden Jennings Fund 1986.71
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
Print
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Did You Know?

This sculpture was first made from a mold, then subsequently hand modeled.

Description

This figure combines an unusual set of attributes. He has long dreadlocks over his shoulders, like an ascetic, and he holds a water pot, like a Brahmin or naga (serpent deity). Also, he seems to carry a sword and dagger like a warrior and is ithyphallic, indicating his virility and fecundity. He may best be identified as a local divinity worshipped for purposes of increasing fertility, but he could also be recognized as an early form of the Hindu god Shiva.

Male Fertility Divinity, Possibly Shiva

c. 120–200 CE

Northern India, possibly Mathura, Kushan period

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