Stone Stele of Female Attendant

India, 5th century

Dimensions: 77 cm x 23 cm 

India stone stele of a female attendant from the 5th century. The attendant is depicted in tribhanga posture (hip is slightly pushed to the side), in her right hand, she holds a big lotus flower (symbol of purity) that hangs over the head as if it was protecting her. Her body is adorned with jewellery (big earrings, necklaces, decorative belt), she is wearing a long skirt, her hair is in a high bun with a crown-like headpiece. She is very feminine, the body reflects her beauty and divine being.

From a Belgian private collection, acquired at Sotheby’s London in 1988