Standing Female Deity, probably Durga

Standing Female Deity, probably Durga

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This powerful representation was clearly a primary devotional icon, as is evident from the scale of the sculpture as well as its formal frontal stance. The figure's deified status is confirmed by indications that she once had multiple arms. She is likely a representation of the goddess Durga in her role as the slayer of the buffalo demon. In this context, she can be understood as Shiva's active female manifestation, or shakti, who rids the world of evil forces. The subtle volumetric articulation of the figure and the low-relief drapery typify the Prasat Andet style.

Asian Art

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Standing Female Deity, probably DurgaStanding Female Deity, probably DurgaStanding Female Deity, probably DurgaStanding Female Deity, probably DurgaStanding Female Deity, probably Durga

The Met's collection of Asian art—more than 35,000 objects, ranging in date from the third millennium B.C. to the twenty-first century—is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world. Each of the many civilizations of Asia is represented by outstanding works, providing an unrivaled experience of the artistic traditions of nearly half the world.