Sardula, architectural fragment
Artist
Indian
Date900–1000
Mediumreddish sandstone
Dimensions78.2 cm (30 13/16 in.)
ClassificationsSculpture
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Terms
Object number1962.55
DescriptionCarving in high-relief from the Khajuraho temple complex shows a sardula (mythical leonine creature) rearing above a crouching male figure with a spear and twisting back in dynamic tension to confront a much smaller man who has climbed upon its back and peers into its open mouth.Label TextMythical leonine creatures, or sardulas, often decorate the pillars and surfaces of north and central Indian temples. They are particularly prominent in the sculptural art of the famous temple complex at Khajuraho, the capital of the Candella dynasty (c. 950-1050), which received royal patronage. This carving in high-relief from the Khajuraho temple complex shows the sardula rearing above a crouching male figure holding a spear and twisting back in dynamic tension to confront a much smaller man who has climbed upon its back and peers into its open mouth.
On View
On view
