Artwork preview

Doorframe with Three Ganas (Nature Deities) Dancing and Playing Instruments

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Reddish-brown stone carving, rectangular with a rough texture and visible signs of aging. The carving depicts a doorframe with three figures, known as Ganas, which are nature deities. The central panel features three Ganas stacked vertically, each playing a different instrument. The top Gana plays a stringed instrument, the middle Gana plays a drum, and the bottom Gana plays a double-reed instrument. The Ganas have distinct hairstyles and wear necklaces. They are positioned within rectangular panels separated by simple borders. The left and right panels have intricate carvings of floral and scroll-like patterns. The carving stands on a square base.

Artwork details

Date:
6th–7th century
Medium:
Sandstone
Culture:
India
Dimensions:
469 × 625 px
Museum record:
View original
Palette