Artwork preview

Halberd Head with Nagas and Blades on a Tortoise

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Metal sculpture on a round base, featuring a central post with ridges. The post extends upward, with a widened section at the top, supporting three ornate blades. Two blades on the left and right sides, are shaped like a leaf or a spearhead with curved tips. The central blade is long and straight with a pointed tip. The blades have intricate designs etched into their surfaces. At the base of the sculpture are two naga figures, which are mythical creatures that are typically depicted as half-human, half-snake. The naga figures are positioned on either side of the post. The sculpture also features a tortoise at the base. The entire sculpture is made of metal, possibly bronze or silver, and has a dark patina. The background of the image is white.

Artwork Details

Date
ca. second half of the 13th century
Medium
Copper alloy
Culture
Indonesia (Java)
Dimensions
375 × 624 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette