|
9. Hanuman South India 18th c. bronze Height: 25 cm (9 7/8 ins) |
This decorative plaque illustrates an episode from the Ramayana in which Hanuman, the monkey king, flies to collect the visalya-karani (life saving plant) for Rama�s brother who is seriously ill. The central figure of Hanuman is depicted striding vigorously and stamping on the head of a fallen demon who holds a sword and shield ready for battle but who is knocked off balance by Hanumans weight. Hanumans tail and the holding out of his right hand indicates the swiftness of his journey and adds much movement and vitality to the image. In his left hand he holds the magical visalya-karani plant. A similar example set in a roundel can be seen in the Los Angeles County Museum of Arts (ref. M.87.160.1). Itemcode: C0346 |