Dancing Celestial

Description

In the Museum’s collection is an early twelfth-century Indian dancing celestial figure that is crisply carved in sandstone. The sculptor has twisted the figure into an extraordinary pose that captures the essence of her dance. Her swaying jewelry emphasizes her movement and contrasts pleasingly with her rounded body. Images of dancing semi-divine attendants often appear on the outer walls of Hindu temples, placed near the figures of gods to honor the deity. Our Dancing Celestial is based on the original figure.

Cast resin. Hand patinated. 22''H x 5 1/2''W x 10''D including base.

Sorry, gift wrap is not available for this item.

Art History

In Hinduism there is no single doctrine—Hindus recognize no one founder or prophet, and there is no holy book similar to the Bible or the Qur'an. Rather, Hindu worship is based on a personal relationship between devotee and god. Shiva, Vishnu, and the Great Goddess Devi are the most widely worshiped deities in Hinduism, and the gods are served by celestial attendants.