Figure of Standing Parvati

Bronzes of the early Chola period (ninth-tenth century) are the most celebrated creations of Indian art. The Ashmolean Museum lacked any example from this phase until it acquired this work in the year of retirement of its keeper of Eastern Art, J.C. Harle. The right hand of this standing Parvati makes a gesture called kataka hasta, which is suitable for the insertion of a bud or blossom; and sometimes a bronze flower is actually held.