Monolithic Pillar
Unknown Artist
600s–700s
Medium
red sandstone
Dimensions
109.9 × 25.4 cm
Classification
Sculpture
Department
Indian and Southeast Asian Art
Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Credit
Edward L. Whittemore Fund
Accession Number
1938.14
About this artwork
The central motif of this temple pillar is a pot, out of which vegetal forms exuberantly emerge, indicating bounty and abundance. The pot itself is decorated with lotus petals, leaves, and a band of pearls. The overflowing pot is a pervasive symbol in India to reference the prosperity and productivity that will result from worship and prayers at the holy site. It also symbolizes the auspiciousness and beauty of the created world.