c. 1000s
Sandstone
Overall: 50.8 x 94 cm (20 x 37 in.)
The Severance and Greta Millikin Purchase Fund 1988.102
Irises and pupils have been lightly incised into the bulging eyes.
Throughout India, sculptures of horned mythic beasts spewing stylized foliage were built into temples, above the entryways, in line with the sanctum. Known as the “face (mukha) of glory (kirti),” the protective mask emanates divine energy from the heart of the temple. The scrolling vegetation flowing from the mouth visually references the unending bounty and success that derives from worship and devotions.
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