South Asia, India, ca. 1600 CE. A playfully dancing voluptuous apsara figure, hand carved in high relief from pink sandstone upon a columnar form. Mid-sway with hands provocatively raised above her head, ample hips swinging toward her left, and legs crossed at the ankles, she is dressed in a partial sari and elaborately adorned with a large garland, arm, ankle and wrist bands, earrings, and nose ring. Befitting of an apsara, this angelic being is depicted as a beautiful, youthful female, particularly adept in the art of seductive movement. According to Indian religions, apsaras are the consorts of Gandharvas ( the court musicians of Indra) and dance to the music played by their Gandharvas. Despite their seemingly lascivious nature, they are believed to be supernatural, ethereal beings who reside in the sky world, akin to angels. Custom, museum-quality black wood stand. Size: 22-1/2" x 6-1/2" x 4-1/4" (57.2 x 16.5 x 10.8 cm); 27" (68.6 cm) high on stand.

Provenance: Ex-private Northern Colorado collection.

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#110395

A large column fragment as shown with expected surface wear. Chip to left breast and tiny chip to garland bead. Otherwise in overall excellent condition.