A JAIN WHITE MARBLE ARCHITECTURAL FRAGMENT OF A PARIKARA, EARLY 13TH CENTURY India, Rajasthan. The fragmentary condition of this piece and the jina on top clearly indicate that this is a pillar section of a parikara. Depicted in the center is Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity, good fortune, and beauty, with four arms, seated on a lotus throne and holding a lotus bud in in one hand. Provenance: Belgian private collection, by repute acquired in the early 1970s. Condition: Some wear, erosion and weathering, losses as visible on the images, but considering the age of this piece it is in fine condition. Weight: 35.2 kg in total Dimensions: Height 43.5 cm (the fragment) and 56 cm (incl. base) The white marble used for this piece is the same material as used for the Dilwara Temples. These Jain temples were built by Vimal Shah and designed by Vastupala, Jain minister of Dholka, between the 11th and 16th centuries and are famous for their use of white marble and intricate marble carvings. They are a pilgrimage place of the Jains, and a popular general tourist attraction. Although Jains built many beautiful temples at other places in Rajasthan, the Dilwara temples are believed to be the most beautiful example of architectural perfection. Mounted on a metal base. (2)