VIRABHADRA - THE HEROVIRABHADRA - THE HEROBronze and brassIndia, Karnataka, 17th / 18th centuryAn open worked and rectangular decorative element with arched sides. To the centre a large-sized and three-dimensional and martial depiction of the four-armed demi-god Virabhadra presenting his attributes bow and arrow, sword and shield. Virabhadra is the emanation of Shiva designed to punish the arrogant Daksha , who was killed and then allowed to live further with a goat head. He is standing on pedestals. Atop his large and crowned head a five-headed Naga crafted from brass and attached. Virabhadra flanked of tiny figures, to the left goat-headed Daksha in worshipping gesture (?) and to the right Parvati, the consort of Shiva, presenting lotus. To upper right a depiction of Nandi, Shiva’s bull.Dimensions: HEIGHT 26.7 CMCondition: Good conditionProvenance: From the collection of an Austrian diplomat, afterwards collection Sohel Ch., New Delhi – Vienna