Sri Lakshmi

This early representation of Sri Lakshmi is a well known example of Mathura Art. It is unique in concept and delicate in form. The goddess of prosperity and fertility is shown standing against a column of lotus flowers, foliage and buds, issuing from a purnaghat, the symbol of purity, prosperity and life. Her feet are resting on the two lotus flowers emerging out of the puranaghata. She is gently looking downwards and pressing her breast with her left hand. This gesture symbolizes the showering of milk, the ultimate source of life, and also plenty and prosperity and eternal motherhood. Her right hand also carries a twig of leaves near the girdle just below the navel. Her hair is arranged in a circular fashion over her head and tied behind into a spiral loop. She is dressed in a transparent dhoti and scarf tied with a belt near the right thigh. She is profusely adorned with ornaments, including a hair ornament, heavy ear pendants, flat torque and beaded long necklace, plenty of bangles, armlets and heavy anklets. The peacocks are presented perching over a leaf in the centre at the back and shown as decorative motif on the armlets of the goddess. The theme suggests joy and prosperity.

The smile on her face adds charm to the inherent beauty of the image. The form is marked with the same heavy languorous grace which has been a characteristic feature of Kushana Yakshis.