Head of god Indra or a Bodhisattva / Avalokiteśvara (?)

Photo by Jules Barthoux ©GrandPalaisRmn - Guimet Museum
Location
Tapa Kalān67
Description
The figure could be the god Indra, the Bodhisattva Avalokiteśvara or a Bodhisattva. The deity wears a turban held in place by a central rectangular bead and surmounted by a pleated palmette, in front of which is a small seated figure, possibly a Buddha, with his hands clasped in añjalimudrā and in the posture of well-being sukhāsana. The few strands of hair escaping from the turban are treated in deepened parallel furrows. The face is idealised, soft and smiling, the eyes half closed. Flower-shaped earrings can be seen.
Characteristics
Dimensions
H: 11.5cm × L: 8cm × P: 7cm
Technique
Modelling
Material
Stucco
Object type
Figure
Site
Tapa Kalān - 67
Conservation location
Guimet Museum
Museum inventory No.
MG 17135
Traces of polychromy
No
Restoration
No restoration
Dimensions
H: 11.5cm × L: 8cm × P: 7cm
Technique
Modelling
Material
Stucco
Object type
Figure
Site
Tapa Kalān - 67
Conservation location
Guimet Museum
Museum inventory No.
MG 17135
Traces of polychromy
No
Restoration
No restoration
Bibliographic Reference
A debated title: learn to weigh the clues