Indian Votive Statuette, Early 19th Century

Early 19th-century Indian votive statuette.

Carved in the round from hardwood, it depicts an anthropomorphic female figure seated on a stylized architectural throne. The body is rendered in a frontal and hieratic manner, with a deliberate simplification of volumes and a marked geometric emphasis.

The slightly disproportionate head features stylized features; the arms are asymmetrically arranged, reinforcing the sculptural and ritual aspect of the piece. The surface retains an old, dark patina, punctuated by areas of wear, losses, and deposits, attesting to prolonged use and a devotional context. Traces of polychromy or ancient pigmentation remain in places.

The piece is characterized by a sober and functional execution, typical of Indian votive statuary of this period, where symbolic and cultic value takes precedence over naturalistic representation.