작품 상세

Dimensions: Height 12 cm Wide 5 cm Depth 4 cm Weight: 380 grams This finely cast silver figure represents Kurma, the tortoise incarnation of Vishnu, one of the most profound and cosmological avatars within Hindu mythology. The sculpture embodies a moment of cosmic balance, where divine intervention sustains the order of the universe itself. According to Hindu tradition, Kurma appears during the great myth of the Samudra Manthan, the Churning of the Ocean of Milk. When gods (devas) and demons (asuras) joined forces to churn the primordial ocean in search of the nectar of immortality (amrita), Mount Mandara was used as the churning rod. As the mountain began to sink into the depths, Vishnu assumed the form of a colossal tortoise, positioning himself beneath the mountain to support its weight upon his shell. In this form, Kurma becomes the literal foundation of cosmic equilibrium—silent, steadfast, and immeasurably strong. The present sculpture captures Kurma with a richly articulated tortoise shell, its geometric pattern carefully rendered to emphasize both naturalism and symbolic order. Rising from the shell is Vishnu in anthropomorphic form, crowned and adorned, his serene expression conveying divine composure amid cosmic upheaval. The multiple arms hold attributes associated with Vishnu’s sustaining power, while the calm symmetry of the figure contrasts with the immense mythic drama it represents. A small attendant figure, shown in reverential gesture, reinforces the devotional context of the sculpture and underscores Vishnu’s role as protector and preserver. The elegant proportions, refined modeling of the hands and face, and the subtle balance between animal and human elements are characteristic of high-quality Indian metalwork of the 18th century, a period in which religious bronzes and silver figures were created both for temple use and private household shrines. The silver surface, now softened by age and devotional handling, retains a warm patina that enhances the sculptural depth and highlights the careful chasing of details. The hollow-cast construction is consistent with traditional Indian metalworking techniques and attests to the object’s ritual function rather than purely decorative intent. As an icon, Kurma represents stability, patience, and the quiet strength that upholds the cosmos.

재료

Silver