Pillar Fragment with Gods Shiva and Ganesha and Goddesses Parvati and Durga
8th/9th century
Medium
Sandstone
Dimensions
51.6 × 22.6 × 18.4 cm (20 5/16 × 8 15/16 × 7 1/4 in.)
Classification
stone
Department
Arts of Asia
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
130633
Art Historical Context
This exquisite sandstone pillar fragment from the 8th or 9th century showcases the divine family of Hinduism: Lord Shiva, his consort Parvati, their Ganesha the elephant-headed remover of obstacles, and the fierce warrior goddess Durga. Carved in high relief, the 51.6 × 22.6 × 18.4 cm piece likely adorned a temple pillar in ancient India, where such architectural elements served both structural and devotional purposes, inviting worshippers to connect with the sacred through intricate stone narratives. Dating to a vibrant era of Hindu temple construction under regional dynasties, the fragment ...
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...