939 - Rare pink sandstone head of Parvati from the Chandella period

Rare pink sandstone head of Parvati from the Chandella period India, probably 10th-12th century. Sandstone, mounted on a wooden base. Dimensions without base: 10 × 6 × 6.5 cm. Condition: Significant signs of wear commensurate with age. Heavy wear, nicks, loss of material and signs of weathering and erosion. - From a German private collection. The head shows the goddess with a high tiara consisting of rows of large lotus leaves and ending in an opening lotus bud at the top. The facial features are weathered but still recognizable: high arched brows, gently closed eyelids, a prominent triangular nose and broad, fleshy lips. Parvati is a Hindu mother goddess, the first consort of Shiva and also a reincarnation of Sati. She embodies the kind, loving and maternal aspect of Mahadevi, the ''Great Goddess''. The Chandella period (ca. 10th-11th century) is particularly famous for its sandstone figures, which are among the finest examples of Middle Indian temple art. The dynasty ruled in central India (especially Madhya Pradesh) and created numerous sculptures that now appear in museums and auctions worldwide.