Pediment with the Face of Glory (Kirti-mukha)
Unknown Artist
c. 1000s
Medium
sandstone
Dimensions
50.8 × 94 cm
Classification
Sculpture
Department
Indian and Southeast Asian Art
Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Credit
The Severance and Greta Millikin Purchase Fund
Accession Number
1988.102
About this artwork
Throughout India, sculptures of horned mythic beasts spewing stylized foliage were built into temples, above the entryways, in line with the sanctum. Known as the “face (mukha) of glory (kirti),” the protective mask emanates divine energy from the heart of the temple. The scrolling vegetation flowing from the mouth visually references the unending bounty and success that derives from worship and devotions.