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Dattātreya, Carved Sandalwood Sculpture, Mysore, Karnataka, Southern India, ca. 1850 – 1870.

REGISTERED ANTIQUITY – NON-EXPORTABLE ITEM.

 

Object Detail

 

This Particular piece of Sculptural art represents an Image of Dattātreya, believed to be a minor incarnation of Lord Vishnu. He was an Aestic. In this portrayal, he is beautifully depicted as the Trinity, embodying the divine essence of Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh in a singular, harmonious form. An early reference is found in Gurucharita. The Iconography of Dattātreya typically features three heads and six arms, accompanied by four dogs of various colours and a cow, particularly in representations from the post-16th century. Notably, the Current depiction lacks the presence of a cow. The figure is under the Audumbara tree, linked to Dattātreya and mentioned in the Gurucharita. A Koel bird is being moved there, depicted realistically by the artist.

 

The dogs in the sculpture symbolise the Vedas and are uncoloured due to the sandalwood material. This representation challenges traditional Brahminical norms and addresses the uncleanliness often associated with these animals, highlighting their role in the Lord’s antinomian identity.

 

The lord is heavily ornamented and adorned. He wears pādukas (wooden sandals), symbolising his ascetic nature and serving as objects of devotion that highlight his divinity. The sculpture is embellished with a highly ornate floriated design at the lower end, adding to its decorative appeal and showcasing the intricate craftsmanship involved in its creation.

 

 

Provenance

 

From a Private Collection in Mumbai, India.

 

Condition

 

Good Condition with minor wear.

 

Dimension

 

Weight – 

Length –

 

Literature Comparison

 

1.A. Gopinatha Rao, Elements of Hindu Iconography. Vol. I, Part 1.Madras: Law Printing House. 1916.

 

2.Rigopoulos, Dattātreya: The immortal guru, Yogin, and avatāra: A study of the transformative and inclusive character of a multi-faceted Hindo deity. Delhi: Sri Satguru. 2000.

 

3.M.Y.S.U Fullerton Texts and trees: Ritual engagements with Audumbar Tree in the Dattātreya sampradāya, 1970.

 

 

 

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