Arte Indiana An important figure of armed Durga

Indian Art An important figure of armed Durga (Mahishasuramardini)North Eastern India, Pala period, 11th-12th century . . Cm 15,50 x 35,00 x 9,00. Significant bronze work depicting the Hindu warrior goddess Durga (who here takes the name of Mahishasuramardini) depicted in the act of killing the demon Mahishasura. The figure is cast in an extremely dynamic pose. Her lean, supple body and open legs simulate an almost athletic lunge, and she has been depicted with voluptuous breasts. The head is embellished with a high crowned hairstyle and large circular earrings. The facial features are typical of the Pala aesthetic. She features ten arms and each hand clasps a weapon. This impressive armoury has been given to her by the Trimurti (Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu) to defeat the demon, who can only be killed by a non-male being. With one of her hands she also extracts Mahishasura from the body of a recently decapitated buffalo, while with her main right hand she appears ready to deliver the final blow. Under her right foot is a lion, her characteristic mount.The entirety of this intricate scene is set against a stylised and elliptical double lotus flower block, typical of the bronze altarpiece, which is in turn positioned on a platform altar. Behind the figure there is also a long prabha altarpiece embellished with stylised flames and a Kirtimukha head at the very top.Provenance: Private Collection Milan, Italy.Acquired at Renzo Freschi, Milan, Italy.