Nagakanya Pink sandstone Central India

The divine protectoress and Goddess of fertility seated in yogic posture on a lion throne, a seven-headed snake hood fanned above her head, flanked by two vidyadharas. her two raised hands bearing lotuses.

US Collection, acquired 1990s
Swiss Collection, acquired 1970s

Good overall condition. Losses to naga hood, upper left and lower right attendant figures, tip of nose and right fingertips, as visible in catalogue illustration. Small chips to front of base. Recently cleaned, with minor accretion throughout consistent with age. No restoration.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Nagas or serpents were considered auspicious protectors bestowed with cosmic powers in ancient Indic philosophy. They are associated with both the principal deities of later Hinduism - Shiva and Vishnu. Inhabitants of the netherworld, they were belived to control springs, wells and rivers. They also brought rain and were therefore considered bestowers of fertility.

Nagakanya (lit. daughter of the nagas) is Goddess of the three realms and pours her blessings of water, and therefore life, on the worlds of the spirits, animals and humans.