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Head of Male Deity, possibly Aiyanar

Central Thailand

first half of 7th century

Not on view

This head probably belonged to a seated Aiyanar, a minor deity revered in India as a protector of travelers and the night guardian of reservoirs. He is worshipped at dedicated shrines on the periphery of villages in proximity to ponds. It might be assumed that he had similar responsibilities in Southeast Asia, though his name is not recorded anywhere. This head shares facial features, captured with unprecedented sensitivity, with the seated Aiyanar (cat. no. 103), and they are likely the products of the same workshop.

cat. no. 104

Head of Male Deity, possibly Aiyanar, Sandstone, Central Thailand — Due to rights restrictions, this image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Title: Head of Male Deity, possibly Aiyanar

Date: first half of 7th century

Culture: Central Thailand

Medium: Sandstone

Dimensions: H. 10 1/4 in. (26.1 cm)

Classification: Sculpture

Credit Line: Lent by The Cleveland Museum of Art, John L. Severance Fund (1970.11)

Accession Number: SL.2.2014.5.1

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