India, Kerala, about 900
Candrama (Moon god)
Granite
43 x 11.5 x 9 inches
Gift of the Jaipaul Family, 2001.
2001.001.001

This sculpture was originally part of the architectural setting in a stone temple. Indian temples have a very carefully prescribed hierarchy for the placement of deities. Since Candrama is a minor god, he was most likely placed on an exterior wall together with other planetary deities. He functioned as a guardian figure and his gesture is one of warning.