Demon

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HADB N° : 170
Technique : Modelling
Object Type : Figure
Material : Stucco
Site : Haḍḍa
Museum : Guimet Museum
Museum Registration Number : MG 17209
Findspot : Tapa Kalān
Number of Findspot : 68
Dimensions : 29.4 cm
Traces of Polychromy : No
Type of Restoration : No restauration

Description :

This demon is dressed in a fur coat with a bonnet, which he fits around his neck with both hands. His reptilian attitude, advancing with a bent body, underlines his disturbing intention. The face of this enigmatic figure, which seems to be creeping along, expresses suffering and passion. He is a tempter, a demon. The clothing is finely rendered, emphasising the body and its movement.

Observation :

J. Hackin suggests the possibility that this elaborate figure may be that of Māra, freed from the Gandharian canon where he appears most often as a "pretty boy Māra" (Hackin, 1928).

Comparative Study :

The same character also appears in a less alarming form: HADB n°169.

Bibliographical References :

BARTHOUX Jules - 1930 - Les Fouilles de Haḍḍa, Figures et Figurines - Pl. 45

HACKIN J. Joseph - 1928 - Les fouilles de la Délégation Archéologique Française à Haḍḍa (Afghanistan), missions Foucher - Godard - Barthoux (1923-1928) - p74