Chola
Bronze Oil Lamp Deepalakshmi
Lost Wax Master
Piece Origin:
India, Circa: 20th Century H 15.75
in.(40cm), W 6 in.(16cm), D 5 in.(13cm) Condition:
excellent Lakshmi
is the Hindu goddess of fertility, abundance, and well-being. This beautifully
rendered Indian lost wax Chola bronze shows Lakshmi as DeepaLakshmi. She carries
a uterine shaped lamp upon which traditionally a light is placed, especially during
the Diwali, the festival of lights that is held in Indian in the months of October/November.
Diwali is celebrated as the victory of humankind over despondent forces. This
statues exhibits the full beauty, elegance, grace and high artistry that is trademark
of Chola era molds. Here DeepaLakshmi’s sensuous feminine beauty is timeless,
the full breasts, the slender waist, the rounded hips. The subtle symmetrical
filigree of her beautifully draped garbierre, compliments intricate jewelry, headdress
and elegant coiffure. The goddesses’ countenance bespeaks of deep inner peace,
a reflection of santosha. Santosha is Sanskrit for the deep contentment that is
our innate nature and is the gift of the gods and goddesses. Indeed it can be
said that it is from this deep contentment of santosha that true abundance is
born. DeepaLakshmi statues became popular around the latter part of the 16th century
in India and are recognized as a vital element in the home temple. This exquisitely
rendered bronze is in excellent condition and is a harbinger of good fortune.
(SD)
Private Collection
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