Dimensions: Height 76 cm Wide 48 cm Depth 73 cm

Weight: 37 Kilograms

Finely cast in the form of the head of Varaha, the boar incarnation of Vishnu, depicted with prominent eyes, curved tusks and a long snout. The deity wears an elaborate domed crown surmounted by a lotus-bud finial and decorated with engraved foliate and geometric motifs. Further engraved ornamentation adorns the face, while the mane is rendered with finely incised striations. The bronze displays a rich surface with areas of natural oxidation and age-related wear.

Varaha, the third avatar of Vishnu, is celebrated in Hindu mythology for rescuing the Earth goddess Bhudevi from the cosmic ocean after she had been seized by the demon Hiranyaksha. Images of the boar-headed deity became particularly popular throughout India and were frequently employed in both temple and courtly contexts.

cast in two parts