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Monolithic Pillar — Anonymous, 7th-8th century

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Written by: Nazlı TunaResearcher · Old Master Paintings
Asian Art · Catalogue no. 17760
Anonymous, 7th-8th century

Monolithic Pillar

StatusReference work · Not for sale
Held byCleveland Museum of Art
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The central motif of this temple pillar is a pot, out of which vegetal forms exuberantly emerge, indicating bounty and abundance. The pot itself is decorated with lotus petals, leaves, and a band of pearls. The overflowing pot is a pervasive symbol in India to reference the prosperity and productivity that will result from worship and prayers at the holy site. It also symbolizes the auspiciousness and beauty of the created world.

Artist / MakerAnonymous, 7th-8th century
Date600s–700s
Culture / OriginNorthern India, Mathura, early medieval period, 7th-8th century
Mediumred sandstone
DimensionsOverall: 109.9 x 25.4 cm (43 1/4 x 10 in.)
DepartmentIndian and Southeast Asian Art
TypeSculpture
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Provenance & Source

Image & data: Cleveland Museum of Art, CC0 / Public Domain.

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