Goddess Durga slaying the demon Mahisha

Bangladesh, northern Bengal, possibly Varendra region

ca. 12th century

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 238

The warrior goddess Durga is celebrated in Hindu India as the supreme protectress of devotees. As an expression of the wrathful aspect of Parvati, Shiva’s consort, she epitomizes shakti, or divine female energy. The goddess assumed a multi-armed form, known as Mahishasuramardini, to wield weapons lent to her by male gods unable to subdue the demon Mahisha. Disguised in buffalo form, the demon assailed Durga, only to be slain by her cosmic weaponry.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

References

Title: Goddess Durga slaying the demon Mahisha
Period: Pala-Sena dynasty
Date: ca. 12th century
Culture: Bangladesh, northern Bengal, possibly Varendra region
Medium: Copper alloy
Dimensions: H. 12 7/8 in. (32.7 cm); W. 8 1/4 in. (21 cm); D. 4 3/4 in. (12.1 cm)
Classification: Sculpture
Credit Line: Purchase, David Nalin Gift, The Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Foundation and Richard Greenbaum Funds, and Florence and Herbert Irving Acquisitions Fund for Asian Art, 2020
Object Number: 2020.399
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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