15th C. Indian Stone Effigy of a Makara / Crocodile
Shop

15th C. Indian Stone Effigy of a Makara / Crocodile

Sold

Central Asia, South India, ca. 15th century CE. Expertly carved from a single large stone of rosy beige hues with some remains of red and white pigment, a dramatic crocodile effigy – with meticulously delineated gnashing teeth, bulging eyes, scaly skin, toed feet, and pointy tail – probably referring to a Makara (“sea dragon” or “water monster” in Sanskrit) – the pet and Vahana (vehicle) of the river goddess Ganga of Hindu mythology, who personifies the purity and piety of the Ganges River (the most sacred river of Hindu mythology) and purportedly descends to earth to rinse away humankind’s sins. A row of Makara are typically featured on the exteriors of Hindu temples, running along a wall or serving as a handrail. As a vahana (“that which pulls”), the Makara is sometimes depicted mounted by a deity, at the deity’s side, or as a symbolic attribute of the deity, in this case it would be Ganga. A very special piece, boasting skillful technique and layers of symbolic meaning. Size: 14.25″ L x 9.5″ W x 6.5″ H (36.2 cm x 24.1 cm x 16.5 cm)

Condition: Very minor scuffing to surface, tiny nicks to tail. Overall excellent. Some mineral deposits and remains of red and white pigment on surface as well.

Provenance: Ex Allen Davis Collection, Sante Fe; Acquired at Europa Fine Art Gallery Summerland, CA

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all purchases.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.