A LARGE PINK SANDSTONE HEAD OF VISHNU, NORTHERN OR CENTRAL INDIA, 10TH-11TH CENTURY
Exquisitely carved with a serene expression, marked by almond-shaped eyes below elegantly arched eyebrows, an aquiline nose, and full lips forming a subtle smile. Flanked by elongated ears with circular earrings, the head surmounted by a tall and elaborately carved tall miter crown, the kiritamakuta.


Provenance:
From a noted private collection in Germany, by repute acquired before the 1950s.

Condition:
Good condition, commensurate with age. Signs of weathering and erosion, nicks, small losses, natural cracks.

Weight: 8,338 g
Dimensions: Height 35 cm


Literature comparison:

Compare a closely related figure of Vishnu carved in sandstone with similar facial features, adornment, and similar beaded and floral decorations along the kiritamakuta, 127 cm high, dated to the 10th century, in the British Museum, registration number 1872,0701.41.


Auction result comparison:

Type: Closely related
Auction: Christie’s New York, 15 March 2017, lot 238
Price: USD 25,000 or approx.
EUR 28,000
converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing
Description: A buff and red sandstone head of Vishnu Vaikuntha, central India, circa 11th century
Expert remark: Note the closely related kiritamakuta and earrings. Note the size (31 cm).


Auction result comparison:

Type: Related
Auction: Sotheby’s New York, 19 March 2014, lot 37
Price: USD 12,500 or approx.
EUR 14,500
converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing
Description: A mottled red sandstone head of Vishnu
Expert remark: Note the related kiritamakuta.