Nirmala Matha

Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception (here referred to as ‘Nirmala Matha’) is usually depicted standing on a crescent moon with her hands joined, her head bowed down or looking up to heaven in awe. This image of Nirmala Matha (the Immaculate Mother) belongs to the 20th century and is made of ivory. It reveals an interesting evolution in the depictions of the Virgin Mary in the way it associates Christian and Hindu themes. The Virgin is shown standing on the crescent moon in the traditional way, but in this case rising from the centre of a lotus blossom. Significant too is the fact that both a Hindu crown and a Christian halo are represented, each demonstrating her divine nature.
This depiction of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception has a close resemblance with goddess Saraswati, who is usually shown in white themes denoting purity. On the other hand, ivory due to its brightness, purity and exquisiteness was used in the images of Our Lady to symbolise purity. Both, the Virgin Mary and goddess Saraswati are portrayed as being serene, calm and peaceful.