Figure Item Number: Eg20 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Modeled clay figure of a crawling child, mounted on a flat, rectangular base with a support block from base to stomach. Mainly hollow construction. Figure appears dressed in short pants, tight shirt, and necklace. These details are painted in pink, green, and yellow with the face painted in flesh tone and details. Base painted black.
History Of Use
Religious offerings are made by Velar potters, usually by special arrangement. These offerings are presented to Hindu village gods during festivals and are installed in local temples. Clay child figure (madalam pillai/infant child) is made as an offering by a barren woman or one whose child is sick, both in the spirit of exchange by proxy or as a pledge of worship if the desired result is obtained.
Iconographic Meaning
Traditionally, the red over yellow dot on forehead represents the 'third eye' of inner sight, and thus, religious inspiration. However, now it is also seen as a cosmetic necessity for dressing up.
Cultural Context
ritual;religious offering
Item History
- Made by K. Muthusamy Velar (Maker) in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India during February 1975
- Owned by Stephen Inglis before November 1975
- Received from Stephen Inglis (Seller) and Unknown (Funding source) during November 1975
What
Who
- Culture
- South India
- Creator
- K. Muthusamy Velar (Maker)
- Previous Owner
- Stephen Inglis
- Received from
- Stephen Inglis (Seller) and Unknown (Funding source)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India
When
- Creation Date
- during February 1975
- Ownership Date
- before November 1975
- Acquisition Date
- during November 1975
Other
- Item Classes
- ceramics; carvings & sculpture
- Condition
- good
- Current Location
- Case 104
- Accession Number
- 0400/0011