SANDSTONE RELIEF OF THE HINDU GODDESS PARVATIcirca 12th century Patinated carved sandstone panel depicts the Hindu goddess Parvati standing in a gentle, graceful pose, her eyes softly closed in serene meditation. She is shown with four arms, each holding a symbolic attribute: her upper left hand grasps a sword, while her lower left hand holds a small vessel; her upper right hand carries an akshamala (a string of prayer beads), and her lower right hand is held in varada mudra, the gesture of blessing and generosity. She wears an elaborate carved headdress, large circular earrings, layered necklaces, and a fitted bodice with a draped lower garment. At the base of the panel, a lion appears to her lower right, while to her lower left are two deer alongside a banana plant, both auspicious motifs associated with the goddess. 24 1/2 in. x 13 3/4 in. $4,000-5,000
PROVENANCE: This item was acquired in 1975 in Bangladesh by the consignor's father, who was residing and working in India at the time of acquisition, and the piece has remained in the family's possession since that date, passing to the current consignor through inheritance. To the buyer and upon request, the consignor has agreed to provide a signed affidavit attesting to the circumstances of acquisition, including the approximate location and year of purchase (1975, Bangladesh). Note: No additional documentation (such as receipts, correspondence, or import records) is currently available from the period of acquisition; however, the consignor's firsthand account, formalized through affidavit, is offered as a good-faith representation of the item's provenance.
