A BRONZE FIGURE OF KALI, 17TH-18TH CENTURY

A BRONZE FIGURE OF KALI, 17TH-18TH CENTURY India, Maharashtra. Finely cast, the figure standing samabhanga on a circular pedestal supported by a square base, holding in her four arms a trident, a sword, a bowl, and a damaru. Wearing a necklace and a diaphanous dhoti made from a tiger’s skin, the stripes visible on the front and back, secured at the waist by a belt with a central floral medallion. Her well-worn face with almond shaped eyes, a broad nose, and full lips with a tall stupa-like crown topped by a bud finial. Provenance: Viennese private collection, acquired in the French antiques market. Condition: Good condition with wear, predominantly from years of worship within the culture, nicks, scratches, the blade of the sword lost, and casting flaws. The bronze has a rich, naturally grown patina which darkens in the recesses. Weight: 551 g Dimensions: Height 18.2 cm Literature comparison: Compare a closely related bonze figure of Kali, similarly modeled, and holding the same implements, 21.5 cm high, dated 17th to 18th century, in the British Museum, accession number 1940,0716.67.