Antique Durga Mahishasura bronze statue. India. From 16th-18th century.

Antique Durga Mahishasura bronze statue. India. From 16th-18th century.

The goddess Durga, seen here with multiple arms, bears various divine weapons, including a sword and a bow. She is in the midst of the cosmic battle, where she pierces the demon Mahishasura, who here attempts to flee in the form of a water buffalo under her feet. Her mount, the lion (vahana), is traditionally seen attacking the demon at her side.

Provenance: originates from the collection of a Danish nurse who, from approximately 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 always originates from ritual rubbing. In Hindu tradition, this type of wear is called a 'pujapatina'. During the daily prayers and rituals (puja), as the face is the most prominent and sacred point, the repeated touching and drying of the years leave the sharp details worn away. This leaves the metal soft, smooth, and rounded, which is now considered an important sign of authenticity among collectors.

The material is a bronze metal alloy.

Measurements: approx. 11x7x6 cm. Condition: see pictures.