Corner Railing Pillar with Drinking Scenes, Yakshis, and Musicians

Cleveland Museum of Art

Corner railing pillar carved from light-brown stone. The pillar has three relief-carved sides. Two long sides and one short side are visible. The pillar tapers slightly from base to top. A short cylindrical protrusion is at the top. The base has a row of small human figures along the bottom. On one long side, four female figures, or yakshis, wearing long robes with folds carved in them, with both arms raised. Two figures, possibly musicians, playing musical instruments are on either side of the yakshis standing on a carved ledge or band. On the short side, a standing figure holds a pot or vase above their head. At their feet are two people sitting on low stools, one playing a musical instrument; a pot and other objects are on the ground beside them. On the other long side, a nude male figure crouches on the ground playing a musical instrument; behind and above them are two more figures playing instruments; one is possibly a drum. Above them are three semi-nude female figures dancing; their bodies are semi-nude; they have jewelry and wear loose, flowing hair. The background is dark grey and light grey, with a light source in front of and to the right of the pillar.