The Hindu deity Lakshmi with elephants

Lakshmi is the goddess of wealth and prosperity. The divine spouse of Vishnu, Lakshmi provides him with wealth for the preservation of creation. Lakshmi is depicted sitting on a lotus. Her front right hand is shown bestowing blessings upon devotees. Elephants pour water over the goddess from pots, in a gesture of respect and consecration.

Carved wooden figural groups such as this one were probably used to ornament large chariots taken on procession through the streets on festival days, and were intended to be brightly painted.