Yusufzai: Hariti

PAKISTAN, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Yusufzai

The statue depicts Hariti, who is a Buddhist protector of children and child-bearing mothers. The statue is influenced by the Hellenistic and Roman styles which are characterized by the deep folds of the garment. The robe runs realistically downwards over the torso and over the knees. The figure is seated on a throne with one foot supported on a stool. Hariti is portrayed wearing a laurel crown and has her hair pulled up into a topknot. The figure leans to one side while holding an infant who reaches up to play with the necklace. Her swelling breasts push through the material of the dress as a sign of fruitfulness, which is further underlined by the children playing at her feet.