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This sculpture features a number of elements characteristic for Nepalese sculpture, such as the gentle smile, hawk-like nose, and the dress with a scarf crossing the thighs. The reddish tone of the metal where the gilding has worn away indicates a high copper content, which is also typical of Nepalese sculpture. Owing to the dated inscription written at the bottom of the base, this image is an important historical document, providing a dated anchor for constructing a chronology of Nepalese art.
Indra
OriginNepal
DateDated by inscription,1463
Dimensions9 1/2 × 6 1/2 × 4 1/8 in.
MediumGilt copper alloy with inset turquoise and semi-precious stones
Classification(s)
Credit LineRubin Museum of Art
Object numberC2005.16.15
Himalayan Art Resources Number65437
DescriptionIndra, the Hindu god of gods, is highly revered in Nepal. Each of his hands held the stalk of a lotus, the one to the side of his left shoulder bearing his attribute, the vajra. Even without this identifying attribute, Indra can easily be recognized on the basis of the horizontal eye on his forehead and the broad crown.This sculpture features a number of elements characteristic for Nepalese sculpture, such as the gentle smile, hawk-like nose, and the dress with a scarf crossing the thighs. The reddish tone of the metal where the gilding has worn away indicates a high copper content, which is also typical of Nepalese sculpture. Owing to the dated inscription written at the bottom of the base, this image is an important historical document, providing a dated anchor for constructing a chronology of Nepalese art.
Not on view
15th century
15th century
16th century
13th century
17th century
late 19th century
13th century
Dated by inscription 1796
15th or 16th century
