Karttikeya, the God of War
Here, the god of war is in his youthful manifestation, with a dagger secured at his waist. He holds a javelin and rooster, the latter associated with speed and aggression. The tail feathers of his peacock are visible behind his feet. The handsome, young god has a Shiva-like chignon and large elliptical earplugs in the Indian manner of the sixth-century Gupta period.
Artwork Details
- Title: Karttikeya, the God of War
- Date: 6th–7th century
- Culture: Pakistan (ancient region of Gandhara)
- Medium: Stone
- Dimensions: H. 6 3/16 in. (15.7 cm)
- Classification: Sculpture
- Credit Line: Purchase, Anonymous Gift, 1988
- Object Number: 1988.260
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
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Pakistan (NW Frontier Province, probably Swat Valley)
9th century
Pakistan (Gilgit Kingdom)
dated by inscription to ca. 600
Pakistan (Swat Valley)
7th century
Pakistan (ancient region of Gandhara)
6th century
Pakistan (Northwest Frontier Province, Swat Valley)
9th century
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