Pancika

PAKISTAN

Pancika is a Buddhist deity who is regarded as commander of the Yaksa army, as well as the deity of wealth and of marital love. He is often portrayed with his partner Hariti, but is alone here.
The figure depicts Pancika’s protective aspect. Seated on a chair with legs pendent, he bears a looped spear with an attached bell that repels evil spirits. The head is turned to one side, clearly displaying staring eyes, a full mustache, and set mouth above a strong chin. The crown, earrings and neck ornaments are intricately crafted as befits a giver of wealth. The figure also wears a garland over one shoulder that falls to the lap.
Two children scramble about Pancika’s knees while at the bottom on the right, a headless figure holding flowers wears a style of clothing that dates to the Kushan period (circa 1st–3rd century). The male and female figure kneeling on the left may be the statue’s donors.