19th C. Nepalese Brass Deity - Goddess Durga

South Asia, Nepal, ca. 19th century CE. A lovely cast brass statue of the Hindu goddess Durga with many arms as she defeats a demon. Durga stands on an integral pedestal with openwork of lotus petals. One foot is planted on a creature, possibly a tiger, and the other is on the back of the human figure, the demon Mahishasura, a shapeshifting man/water buffalo. Her eighteen arms hold her sacred attributes which includes many weapons. She holds a spear pointed at Mahishasura and her central arms hold a bowl and make the abhaya mudra gesture for no fear. She is adorned with a skirt, jewelry, and an intricate headdress. Her almond-shaped eyes stare forward, calmly exuding her sacred power. The verso of the statue is unadorned and may have rested against a wall of a household shrine. A lovely piece that has developed a nice patina on the golden surface. Size: 3" W x 5.25" H (7.6 cm x 13.3 cm)

Durga is a warrior form of Parvati who combats evil demons while riding a lion or a tiger, and her multiple arms indicate protection from all directions. Usually depicted with a serene expression, she exudes both femininity and a warrior's ferocity with her many weapons. She is the embodiment of fearlessness and Durga means "invincible."

Provenance: private New Jersey, USA collection; ex-The Buddha Gallery, California, USA

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#158279
Condition Report: Stable crack to top left hand. Softening of some details. Mineral deposits and patina with traces of red pigments.