Handle with Intertwined Figures
This elaborate openwork handle for a ritual vessel is composed of a five intertwined nagas, snake deities charged with the protection of the earth’s waters and its riches. The nagas appear with human torsos, snake hoods, jewels, crowns, and extended snakes bodies. As this handle likely formed part of vessel for ritual lustration, naga imagery would be highly propitious.
Artwork Details
- Title: Handle with Intertwined Figures
- Period: early Malla period
- Date: 13th century
- Culture: Nepal (Kathmandu Valley)
- Medium: Copper alloy
- Dimensions: H. 6 1/8 in. (15.5 cm); Gr. W. 1 9/16 in. (4 cm)
- Classification: Metalwork
- Credit Line: Purchase, Mr. and Mrs. Perry J. Lewis Gift, 1990
- Object Number: 1990.43
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
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