Antique Durga Mahishasura bronze statue. India. From 17.-18. Century.

Antique Durga Mahishasura bronze statue. India. From 17.-18. Century.

The goddess Durga, seen here with multiple arms, carrying 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 tries to escape 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 this connection, she acquired this statue.

The damage to the face of this type of antique bronze figurine always stems almost always 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, years of repeated touching and drying out wear away the sharp details. This leaves the metal soft, smooth, and rounded, which today is considered an important sign of authenticity among collectors.

The material is a bronze metal alloy.

Measurements: approx. 7,3x4,4x2,5 cm. Condition: see pictures.