Yakshi (Female Nature Spirit) with Hands Together in the Honoring Posture
From the railing of a Buddhist stupa
Artist/maker unknown, Indian
Geography:
Made in Uttar Pradesh, Mathura Region, India, Asia
Date:
2nd centuryMedium:
SandstoneDimensions:
16 1/2 × 6 1/4 × 3 1/4 inches (41.9 × 15.9 × 8.3 cm)Curatorial Department:
South Asian Art
1956-75-2Credit Line:
Purchased from the Stella Kramrisch Collection with funds contributed by R. Sturgis Ingersoll, Nelson Rockefeller, and other generous donors, the bequest of Sophia Cadwalader, the Popular Subscription Fund, and proceeds from the sale of deaccessioned works of art, 1956
Made in Uttar Pradesh, Mathura Region, India, Asia
Date:
2nd centuryMedium:
SandstoneDimensions:
16 1/2 × 6 1/4 × 3 1/4 inches (41.9 × 15.9 × 8.3 cm)Curatorial Department:
South Asian Art
* Gallery 231, Asian Art, second floor
Accession Number:1956-75-2Credit Line:
Purchased from the Stella Kramrisch Collection with funds contributed by R. Sturgis Ingersoll, Nelson Rockefeller, and other generous donors, the bequest of Sophia Cadwalader, the Popular Subscription Fund, and proceeds from the sale of deaccessioned works of art, 1956
Label:
Yakshis are female nature spirits who embody fertility and prosperity. They are often shown with trees, flowers, and snakes, suggesting a transfer of creative energy between nature and humanity. It is likely that they were worshiped as local goddesses. In early Indian art, images of yakshis frequently adorned railing posts or acted as brackets for railing gateways. This figure is shown with her hands folded in prayer.
Yakshis are female nature spirits who embody fertility and prosperity. They are often shown with trees, flowers, and snakes, suggesting a transfer of creative energy between nature and humanity. It is likely that they were worshiped as local goddesses. In early Indian art, images of yakshis frequently adorned railing posts or acted as brackets for railing gateways. This figure is shown with her hands folded in prayer.
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