Art Resource - ART201386

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Relief sandstone panel depicting the Saptamatrika, 10th century. With the exception of one, each goddess derives her name and attributes from the male god who she personifies. Brahmani (the second figure from the left) has four heads like Brahma, and is often shown seated on a lotus or on a gander; Maheshvari, the feminine personification of Shiva or Mahesa, sits next to her on a bull; Kaumari, derived from Kumara, rides a peacock; Vaishnavi is the female personification of Vishnu, as is Varahi, in his incarnation as the boar; Indrani derives from Indra. Chamunda, the last in the series, is shown emaciated, and crowned by serpent heads. They are usually accompanied by Shiva and Ganesha at either end of the relief. Every alternate goddess carries a child in her lap. The ancient cult of goddess worship is linked with primeval ideas of fertility, generation and the earth. Collectively, they are known as Devi, the great goddess, who is simultaneously powerful, fierce, seductive and gentle.
OA, 1880-230

Location British Museum/London/Great Britain

Unique Identifier ART201386

Type Image

Purpose Public

Size 1600px × 1178px

Photo Credit Erich Lessing / Art Resource, NY

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