A PINK SANDSTONE GOPURAM FRAGMENT, INDIA, 11TH - 12TH CENTURY

A PINK SANDSTONE GOPURAM FRAGMENT, INDIA, 11TH - 12TH CENTURY
The architectural fragment most likely comes from a temple entrance gate (Gopuram). It shows a central three-headed deity seated in dhyanasana on a stepped base, originally with four arms, holding in one hand prayer beads and in another a mace, adorned with beaded jewelry and sacred thread, the face with a fine expression marked by almond-shaped eyes, gently arched brows, and a subtle smile. The deity is surrounded by smaller figures of attendants and worshippers, as well as a fierce yali to his right.
Provenance:
From the personal collection of Mohamed Makiya and thence by descent. Mohamed Makiya (1914-2015) was an architect noted for establishing Iraq's first department of architecture at the University of Baghdad. He is best known for his extension to the Khulafa Mosque in Baghdad. In the early 1970s, Makiya and his family relocated to London where he established the Kufa Gallery for Islamic and Arab art. In 2016, Iraq honored Mohamed Makiya with a 1,000 Dinar postage stamp.
Condition:
Good condition, fully commensurate with age. Extensive wear, losses, signs of weathering and erosion, few structural cracks.
Weight: 8,381 g (incl. stand)
Dimensions: Height 38 cm (excl. stand) and 41.5 cm (incl. stand)
Mounted on an associated metal stand. (2)