Artwork preview

Varuna Holding a Noose and Riding a Swan

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The image depicts Varuna, a figure with a serene expression, sitting cross-legged on a swan, with the swan's head visible at the bottom right. Varuna holds a noose in his right hand raised near his face and has his left hand resting on his knee. He wears a beaded necklace, large circular earrings and bracelets on both wrists. His hair is styled in an elaborate updo. The figure is framed within a rectangular recess with a rough, textured surface. The overall appearance suggests an ancient stone carving.

Artwork details

Date:
6th–8th century
Medium:
Sandstone
Culture:
India
Dimensions:
553 × 624 px
Museum record:
View original
Palette