Balarama
ca. 8th–9th century
1 of 2
Object Label
This figure can be identified as Balarama because of the hooked plow that he holds in his left hand (now damaged) and the multiple hooded cobra heads that appear above his left shoulder. The snake hoods recall the god’s role as a manifestation of the serpent Shesha. The placement of the snake hoods at one side is extremely unusual; typically they circle Balarama’s head like a halo.
Caption
Balarama, ca. 8th–9th century. Red sandstone, 17 1/2 x 10 3/4in. (44.5 x 27.3cm) Other: 17 1/2 x 10 3/4in. (44.5 x 27.3cm). Brooklyn Museum, Gift of the Ernest Erickson Foundation, Inc., 86.227.158. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum)
Gallery
Not on view
Collection
Gallery
Not on view
Collection
Title
Balarama
Date
ca. 8th–9th century
Geography
Possible place made: Central region, Rajasthan, India
Medium
Red sandstone
Classification
Dimensions
17 1/2 x 10 3/4in. (44.5 x 27.3cm) Other: 17 1/2 x 10 3/4in. (44.5 x 27.3cm)
Credit Line
Gift of the Ernest Erickson Foundation, Inc.
Accession Number
86.227.158
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