Rare and significant large terracotta depicting a female spirit or goddess. The figure's facial features are exceedingly feminine, with elongated eyes and a supple downward incline of the head. The gently wavy hair is tied up into a large chignon, encircled with Indo/Greek-inspired leaves and bunches of grapes. The elongated ear lobes are adorned with large circular earrings, while the upper portion of the body and the waist are adorned with intricate jewels that partially cover the breasts. Seated with legs bent sideways, the figure displays a flexible and supple twist of the torso, reinforced by the right arm and the hand whose tapered fingers reach out as if to grab something. The whole work is sprinkled with specks of mica to create a subtly iridescent effect. It should be noted that this work verges on a stylistic syncretism of cultures from neighbouring areas. The figure's posture suggests it once belonged to a larger sculptural ensemble.

Provenance:
Private Collection Milan, Italy.
Acquired at Dalton Somarè, Milan.

For close related examples please see:
Christie’s, “Art d’Asie”, 12 June 2012, Paris, Sale 3509, Lot 304.

Michael Henss in Arts of Asia, “The Mystery of the Hund Statues: An Unknown Chapter of Central Asia Statuary” pag. 28, Vol. 46, issue 1, January-February 2016.

Exhibitions:
Asian Art in London, 31st October - 9th November 2013.
Bruneaf, Bruxelles, 2014.