Antique Bala Krishna Kaliya copper statue. India. From 17.-19. Century.

Antique Bala Krishna copper statue. India. From 17.-19. Century.

Figurine depicts likely "Krishna Kaliya Mardan", a popular scene from Hindu mythology, where the young Krishna dances on the head of the demonic snake Kaliya.

Figurine depicts a famous scene from Hindu mythology, where the young god Krishna subdues and dances on the head of the poisonous, multi-headed snake king Kaliya to purify the Yamuna River.

The scene represents the good's victory over evil and the restoration of divine order (dharma).

Provenance: originates from the collection of a Danish nurse who from approx. 1947-60, was part of the UN's vaccination program, in Asia and Africa. In connection with this, she acquired this statue.

The wear on the face of this type of antique bronze figurine usually stems from ritual polishing. In Hindu tradition, this type of wear is called a "pujapatina". During the daily prayers and rituals (puja) the face being the most prominent and sacred point, centuries of repeated touching and drying out the sharp details away. This leaves the metal soft, smooth and rounded, which is now considered an important sign of authenticity among collectors.

The material is a copper metal alloy.

Measurements: approx. 5x3x2 cm. Condition: see pictures.