Extremely Miniature Bronze Durga slaying Mahishasura

This highly-detailed bronze of the goddess Durga is notable for just how small it is. Cast using the lost wax process, the amount of detail achieved in such a small surface area is quite incredible.

Most likely from Nepal. Durga is a popular goddess in Nepal. Each year in Nepal, hundreds are buffaloes are ritually beheaded to honour Durga during the Dasain festival. The bronze might also be from India.

It shows Durga, multi-armed, bejewelled and crowned, slaying the buffalo-demon Mahishasura. The moment of decapitation is captured in this bronze. Durga is balanced on the back of her lion mount as she attacks Mahishasura. She holds her attributes in her hands.

The base is tiered and rectangular.

The bronze has a varying, dark patina.