Indra

This sculpture of Indra seated in royal ease (rajasana), with the right arm resting on his knee and the left supporting him, shows the balance and elegance achieved by Newar metal craftsmen. Commonly recognized by his horizontal third eye, Indra is a god from the ancient Indian Vedic system and is preserved and practiced essentially only in Nepal. This work, dated prior to the 16th century, provides an anchor for historians constructing a chronology of Nepalese art. The date allows for a more accurate stylistic analysis of other comparable objects, such as the smaller sculpture of Indra in this section. Notice the similarity in the modeling of the body and the distinctive crown and ornamentation.