Goddess of Dance (Nrtyadevi)

16th century

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 252

Polychromed wood sculpture from at least the tenth century survives in Nepal, in the form of both independent sculptures and architectural elements. This dancer, likely one of a pair, is a form of a Buddhist savior, a counterpart to such popular bodhisattvas as Avalokiteshvara in the form of Cintamani Lokeshvara, the wish-fulfilling jewel bearer. This goddess gestures with her lower hand, evoking her boon-granting power.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

Title: Goddess of Dance (Nrtyadevi)
Period: Malla period
Date: 16th century
Culture: Nepal, Kathmandu Valley
Medium: Wood with pigment
Dimensions: H. incl. base 33 in. (83.8 cm); W. 13 1/2 in. (34.3 cm); D. 9 in. (22.9 cm)
Classification: Sculpture
Credit Line: Zimmerman Family Collection, Gift of the Zimmerman Family, 2016
Object Number: 2016.21.1
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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