Home altar figurine of the Mother Goddess Shakti - Bronze - India - 18th century

Authentic antique household altar figurine, a so-called Utsava Murti, depicting a four-armed tantric manifestation of the Hindu Mother Goddess Shakti, possibly Durga, Kali, or one of the Matrikas. The deity is shown serene in the Lalitasana posture, also known as the posture of regal ease, seated on a stepped square pedestal or plinth. The figurine was crafted in the eighteenth century in Central or South India by a local artisan. This type of casting is known in the Asian art trade as folk bronze, characterized by a robust, time-worn, and charming form.

The object is traditionally handmade using the lost-wax casting method from a solid copper alloy of bronze and brass. This artisanal casting process is clearly recognizable by the characteristic hollow underside of the plinth with old traces of the original core material. The bronze surface has developed a beautiful, authentic patina over the centuries. Moreover, the deeper grooves and facial features still contain clear, original residues of red Sindoor and Kumkum offer powder, evidencing generations of intensive ritual use during religious Puja ceremonies.

The figurine is in a moderate, but completely original and honest condition with evident signs of aging. The right forearm has historically broken at the wrist, resulting in the original hand attribute being missing. The piece stands 11.4 centimeters tall, 6.4 centimeters wide, and 5.9 centimeters deep, with a solid total weight of 290 grams. A wonderful and culturally interesting object for the connoisseur of early Indian bronze art.

Dimensions: 11.4 x 6.4 x 5.9 cm
Weight: 290 g