Brahma

Historical period(s)
late 9th century
Medium
High tin bronze
Dimensions
H x W x D: 19.7 × 7.6 × 9 cm (7 3/4 × 3 × 3 9/16 in)
Geography
Indonesia, Central Java
Credit Line
Promised gift of Ann and Gilbert Kinney to the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery
Collection
Long-term loan
Accession Number
LTS2015.3.5
On View Location
Currently not on view
Classification(s)
Metalwork, Sculpture
Type

Sculpture

Keywords
Brahma, Hinduism, Indonesia, Java
Provenance
Provenance research underway.
Label

Brahma is the Hindu god associated with creation of the universe. In Indonesian sculpture he is often given an ascetic expression that closely associates him with Shiva. Here he holds Shiva's attributes of rosary, flywhisk, and waterpot. The staff once supported a trident. However, the deity's four faces and the goose vehicle (hamsa) at his feet identify him as Brahma.

Collection Area(s)
Southeast Asian Art
Web Resources
F|S Southeast Asia
SI Usage Statement

Usage Conditions Apply

There are restrictions for re-using this image. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page.

The information presented on this website may be revised and updated at any time as ongoing research progresses or as otherwise warranted. Pending any such revisions and updates, information on this site may be incomplete or inaccurate or may contain typographical errors. Neither the Smithsonian nor its regents, officers, employees, or agents make any representations about the accuracy, reliability, completeness, or timeliness of the information on the site. Use this site and the information provided on it subject to your own judgment. The Freer Gallery of Art and Arthur M. Sackler Gallery welcome information that would augment or clarify the ownership history of objects in their collections.

citation | Save this image How to download an image | Request Permission | Terms of Use