Head of god Indra

Photo by Alexandra Vanleene
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
Other objects from Tapa Kalān
Learn to recognise this figure
Part of the themed routes





