Head of god Indra

Photo by Alexandra Vanleene
Location
Tapa Kalān68
Description
This Indra head bears the mark of a Central Asian inspiration. The complex headdress, composed of a crown surmounted by two coiled spirals, bears an Iranian crescent, possibly Hephtalite. The face has irregular features. Seen in profile, the forehead is exaggeratedly rounded. The half-closed eyes are almond-shaped. The nose is short and pointed, the mouth smiling. The lobes of his ears are elongated by the heavy pearls he was wearing. On the neck, a fold is marked. Barthoux notes traces of red polychromy.
1928 / today


Excavation photograph by Jules Barthoux (1928) juxtaposed with a recent photograph by Alexandra Vanleene.
Characteristics
Dimensions
H: 11.2cm
Technique
Modelling
Material
Stucco
Object type
Figure
Site
Tapa Kalān - 68
Conservation location
Guimet Museum
Museum inventory No.
MG 17142
Traces of polychromy
Yes
Restoration
No restoration
Dimensions
H: 11.2cm
Technique
Modelling
Material
Stucco
Object type
Figure
Site
Tapa Kalān - 68
Conservation location
Guimet Museum
Museum inventory No.
MG 17142
Traces of polychromy
Yes
Restoration
No restoration
Bibliographic Reference
Part of the themed routes