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This information was automatically generated from data provided by MOA: University of British Columbia. It has been standardized to aid in finding and grouping information within the RRN. Accuracy and meaning should be verified from the Data Source tab.

Description

Modelled clay composition consisting of seven female figures seated side by side on a hollow rectangular base. Each figure wears a short tunic and long skirt, a hair dressing with an offset knot, a simple pendant around the neck, and carries a flower bud in the hand except the second from the right which lost an arm in the firing and the second from the left which through some confusion has both hands in the lap.

History Of Use

Figure of the village gods are made by Velar potters, usually by specific arrangement. These figures are installed in the village temple during a festival, in conjunction with or rather than stone images. The figures are worshipped periodically and replaced with new figures as often as once a year.

Cultural Context

ritual; religious offering

Iconographic Meaning

Kannimar: the seven virgins. Popular, secondary, village deities who is consulted for many problems including illness and childbirth. They are dressed in the style of the ancient kingdoms, including offset hair knot. Each holds a lotus bud, symbol of the cosmos and of enlightenment. The bulging eyes are a symbol of power.

Item History

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