Mathura: Yaksa

INDIA, Uttar Pradesh, Mathura

The statue was discovered at Parkham, Mathura. Yaksas are one of the Eight Classes of Dharma Protectors and their main function was to guard the well-being and wealth of Buddhist temples.
This early example is extensively damaged and an obvious attempt at re-attaching the head can be seen. Little is discernible, apart from the heavy earrings and the two necklaces below. A sash is knotted across the body just below the chest, below that bulges an emphasized stomach which overhangs the edge of the diaphanous skirt through which the muscular legs are visible. The bent left leg throws the weight of the body onto the right, inclining it a little from the upright.