Seated Devata
Ancient India, Kashmir Region
7th-8th century
Fired clay
Height: 36 inches (91.5 cm)

Fashioned from low-fired clay, the devata is shown in a seated position with its gaze cast slightly downwards. It has a dramatic aureole that is composed of dense rows of beads that arch over the crown and attach to the shoulders. The high crown is decorated with an intricate diadem of three medallions strung together by a prominent string of pearls. Tightly arranged corkscrew ringlets of hair spill out from underneath the tiara onto the forehead. The long incised eyebrows lead to the aquiline nose and large almond-shaped eyes. The mouth and chin are small, but a lively fleshiness is communicated by the modeling of the lips and cheeks. The devata is adorned with two necklaces and bracelets on each wrist. The figure is proportioned robustly and the abdominal muscles have been heroically defined. The extended right hand may represent the ubiquitous display of charity and the left is held at the side.

Kashmir was a major center of Hindu and Buddhist religious thought and learning during the Karkota Period (ca. 626-855/6). The Karkota rulers were known for their support of the highly creative phase of artistic activity that occurred during this period. Although the architectural remains are scant, there are, in addition to this dazzling terracotta, some other outstanding examples in bronze that survive from this period.