Untitled

Unknown

ca. 12th century · Copper alloy · Asian Art

The warrior goddess Durga is celebrated in Hindu India as the supreme protectress of devotees. As an expression of the wrathful aspect of Parvati, Shiva’s consort, she epitomizes shakti, or divine female energy. The goddess assumed a multi-armed form, known as Mahishasuramardini, to wield weapons lent to her by male gods unable to subdue the demon Mahisha. Disguised in buffalo form, the demon assailed Durga, only to be slain by her cosmic weaponry.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 12th century

Medium

Copper alloy

Culture

Bangladesh, northern Bengal, possibly Varendra region

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Purchase, David Nalin Gift, The Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Foundation and Richard Greenbaum Funds, and Florence and Herbert Irving Acquisitions Fund for Asian Art, 2020