Untitled

Unknown

1st century CE · Terracotta · Asian Art

The makara—a mythical aquatic creature that is part crocodile, part fish—served as a vehicle for nature deities in early Buddhist art. This clay model was once wheeled, perhaps as a child’s toy. Some versions may have been placed near rivers to ensure protection from aquatic dangers.

Artist

Unknown

Date

1st century CE

Medium

Terracotta

Culture

India (Uttar Pradesh, probably Kausambi)

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Purchase, Rogers Fund, by exchange, 2010