Tree Dryad (Shalabhanjika)
Integrated into the carved facades of Indian temples is a host of seductive females whose identifications are not always apparent. Some are nature spirits. Others serve as consorts and companions to the gods. The blossoming branch in this woman's hand and the tree trunk in the background suggest that she is a wood nymph.
Artwork Details
- Title: Tree Dryad (Shalabhanjika)
- Date: 12th–13th century
- Culture: India (Orissa)
- Medium: Ferruginous stone
- Dimensions: H. 42 1/2 in. (108 cm); W. 14 in. (35.6 cm)
- Classification: Sculpture
- Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1965
- Object Number: 65.108
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
More Artwork
A slider containing 5 items.
Press the down key to skip to the last item.
Press the down key to skip to the last item.
India (Orissa)
13th century
India (Orissa, Bhuvaneshwar)
11th–12th century
Dasoja of Balligrama
first quarter of the 12th century
India (Gujarat or Rajasthan)
first half of the 11th century
India, Tamil Nadu
12th century
Related Content
Publications
Books, guides, and catalogues published by The Met.
Free to download
Research Resources
The Met provides unparalleled resources for research and welcomes an international community of students and scholars. The Met's Open Access API is where creators and researchers can connect to the The Met collection. Open Access data and public domain images are available for unrestricted commercial and noncommercial use without permission or fee.
To request images under copyright and other restrictions, please use this Image Request form.
Feedback
We continue to research and examine historical and cultural context for objects in The Met collection. If you have comments or questions about this object record, please complete and submit this form. The Museum looks forward to receiving your comments.