This masterpiece of the four guardians is cast in brass by the lost wax process where a mould representing the initial form of the object to be cast is first prepared. This particular piece seems to be executed in several parts and deftly assembled thereafter. The sun rises in the east and it is the source of all energy. All the gods, therefore, live in the east. So Indra the king of gods became the guardian of the Eastern Quarter.
The Aryans had contempt for the non-Aryans who lived in South India. The south was therefore considered inauspicious. Death is most inauspicious; therefore Yama the god of death became the guardian of the Southern Quarter.
On the west, India is girdled by the (Arabian) sea. Varuna is the water deity and so the guardian of the Western Quarter. The yakshas are supposed to live in the north. So, the chief of the yakshas, Kubera, became the guardian of the Northern Quarter.
Square in shape and containing a central raised platform housing the four minor deities of considerable importance, this brass sculpture depicts that the quarters it is placed in, is watched over by gods in all directions.
This description by Renu Rana.
Of Related Interest:
Thirthankara Parshvanath (Jain Miniature Painting)
The Marriage of Thirthankara Neminath (Jain Miniature Painting)
Tirthankar (Wood Sculpture)
Send as free online greeting card
Email a Friend
Visual Search
Manage Wishlist