Head of a Damsel
Description
This terracotta head is probably that of a dancer. Notice the exotic jewellery! Her elaborate hairdo is adorned with beautiful hair ornaments with Makarika (crocodile) decoration. These Makarikas hold a circular floral ornament, resting on her forehead in between the bands of her curly hair. Behind this is another ornamental band over an attractive coiffure.
The face is a combination of the Gandhara and Gupta styles. Observe the large bow-like eyebrows, the elegant nose, and the full, sensuous lips. The head is stylishly bent in a slight profile highlighting the beauty of her face.
The use of animal heads as a decorative element in ornamental jewellery was a Graeco-Roman influence on Indian art.
Akhnoor, the place where this terracotta was found has yielded a large number of terracotta figures of this period. They are highly influenced in style by that of Graeco-Roman sculptures of the same period.
Gift of Smt. Latifi from the collection of late Dr. Alma Latifi
Collection
Sculptures
Object Type
Sculpture
Material
Terracotta
Schools/Culture/Period
Gupta period
Technique
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Date
6th century CE
Location
Akhnoor, Kashmir
Dimension
Ht.: 17.3 cms.