Didarganj: Female Figure

INDIA, Bihar, Didarganj

This statue depicts a female figure and was found in the ruins of a palace. The body is exaggeratedly sensuous. The deep bosom is emphasized by the narrow passage left for the necklace between the breasts, while the skirt is worn very low on the hips and draws attention to the narrow waist. A beaded belt of many strands supports the skirt and bell ornaments are worn about the ankles. A huge jewel adorns the headband, behind which the hair is caught up into a graceful knot. The raised right hand holds a whisk and a stole drops over the forearm to drape the length of the body. The hard Chunar sandstone from which the statue is carved has been buffed to such smoothness that light reflects off the surface, adding to its striking effect.