Rare small stele / votive plaque in sculpted marble, polychrome and gilded – Hindu deity with three - Hand-sculpted white marble, application of traditional mineral pigments and highlights to the - India - 19th century

[Sacred Art / India] Rare small stele / votive marble plaque, carved, polychrome, and gilded – Hindu deity with three heads (Brahma) with his sacred mount the Hamsa (swan/goose) – India (Rajasthan or Gujarat), 19th century

Charming and authentic monoxyl votive stele sculpted in round relief and high relief in white marble, enhanced with rich polychromy (red, ochre yellow, white) and gold leaf gilding on the jewelry, garments and headdresses of the period.

Subject & Iconography: The piece represents a major deity of the Hindu pantheon, most likely Brahma (the Creator) characterized by his three visible heads crowned with a golden tiara and his seated in the lotus position (padmasana) on a throne. On the front base, one can discern the engraved and painted detail of his mount (vahana), the Hamsa (the sacred swan or goose).

Material & Finish: Hand-carved white marble, application of traditional mineral pigments and gold leaf highlights on adornments, garments and coiffures.

Origin: India (traditional Rajasthan or Gujarat art, domestic devotional / pocket temple art).

Period: 19th century.

Dimensions & Weight:

Height: 9.8 cm
Width: 6.7 cm
Depth: 2.3 cm
Weight: 269 g

Overall condition: Very good overall conservation for an ancient devotional piece.

Polychromy & Wear: Natural wear to gilding and polychromy due to rituals and the passage of time. Solid marble structure, good handling patina.