EXTREMELY FINE DURGA Bronze South-India , 17th century Dimensions: Height 8 cm Weight: 183,8 grams Fine statue of the Goddess of War. The base is a lotus throne with beaded rim. The ten-armed Durga is holding her weapons and ritual objects while standing on her mount and vahana, the tiger. She is slaying and ultimately decapitating the buffalo demon Mahishasura who was known for pursuing his evil deeds by shape-shifting. This scene called Mahishasuramardini “Crusher of Mahishasura” is a popular theme and has been reproduced in countless murals, manuscript paintings and even contemporary art.