Artwork preview

Manasa, the Snake Goddess

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Manasa, the Snake Goddess, depicted as a bronze sculpture with a dark green and brown patina. The figure sits cross-legged with right hand resting on right knee and left hand holding a snake. The goddess wears a crown-like headdress with multiple elements on top and circular decorations on the sides. Earrings are large and circular. The figure has a necklace and other decorative elements on the body. The sculpture has a rough, irregular shape, with visible signs of aging and wear. The background of the image is a gradient from dark gray to light gray.

Artwork Details

Date
11th century
Medium
Copper sheet, repousséd and engraved, with traces of gilding
Culture
India (Bengal) or Bangladesh
Dimensions
468 × 624 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette