In Nepal, this female counterpart of the god of wealth is one of the most popular divinities. This image was set up in either a domestic shrine or a Buddhist monastery, where devotees would pray to her for wealth, prosperity, and children. In each of her six arms, she holds objects pertaining to life and abundance: jewels, an overflowing pot, and a sheaf of wheat. A Buddhist philosophical text rests on top of the lotus flower she holds in her topmost left hand, suggesting that wealth and prosperity can derive from the acquisition of true knowledge.
Details
- Title : Vasudhara, Goddess of Abundance
- Year : 1300s-1400s
- Classification : Sculpture
- Medium : Gilt bronze and semi-precious stones
- Dimension : Overall: 16.2 cm (6 3/8 in.)
- Country/ Geo-location : Nepal
- Period : 14th-15th century
- Collection : The Cleveland Museum of Art
- Credit Line : Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund
- Status : On View 237 Himalayan
- Collection : Nepalese Art
- Department : Indian and Southeast Asian Art