Hanuman
Maharashtra, India
Bronze
9.25 inches high, 7.75 inches wide, 3 inches deep (23.5 by 19.7 by 7.5 cm)
18th century
Ex private collection, Oakland, CA; ex private collection, Belgium

Hanuman was the hero of Rama's army of monkeys. Here he appears in motion, trampling a demoness under foot. He encountered (and overcame) at least 3 named female demons who tried to block his passage to Lanka to rescue Sita, Rama's consort. Sita had been kidnapped by Ravana, the evil king of Lanka. The Ramayana story. More generally showing his ability to overcome obstacles.

In this remarkable two-part shrine, Hanuman's tail is exceptionally long, forming a sort of halo over him. Perhaps also referencing his trick of lengthening his tail when it was set afire by his enemies, and then using the lengthened tail to set fire to all of the Lanka kingdom. The prabha has a makara on each side at Hanuman's shoulder level, and the Kirtimukha face at top center. At the back are loops that likely held peacock feathers. Hanuman's right hand is in the abhaya mudra "Fear not" offering peace and protection. His left hand holds a medicinal plant, and there appears to be a pointed club or weapon over his shoulder. The crown suggests that Hanuman has reached the deity level.
#5239

$5800