South Indian Bronze Image of Lakshmi

Bronze Image of Lakshmi

This cast bronze image of Lakshmi or Sri Devi as the goddess sometimes is known, is one of the two consorts of Vishnu (the other is known as Bhu Devi).

It stands on a platform etched with lotus petal motifs.

Lakshmi is depicted nearly always with a

kuchabandha or breast band, whereas Bhu Devi is without. She wears a lightly patterned dhoti, various jewellery items, and a tall, multi-tiered karandamukuta headdress.

The image here has rounded, softened contours from ritual

puja wear, and a glossy, chocolate-brown patina. It was acquired in the UK and most probably has been in the UK since the colonial era.

Archer, M. et al, Treasures from India: The Clive Collection at Powis Castle, The National Trust, 1987.

Mitchell, A.G.,

Hindu Gods and Goddesses, UBSPD, 1982.

UK art market