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Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita
Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita

Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita

Place of Origin
  • Southern India
Date1900-1950
MaterialsWood
DimensionsH. 18 1/2 in x W. 12 in x D. 4 1/2 in
Credit LineThe Avery Brundage Collection
Object numberB61S54+
DepartmentSouth Asian Art
ClassificationsSculpture
On View
Not on view
More Information

Rama is one of the major Hindu deities. He is identified in ancient texts as the seventh incarnation of Vishnu. He is the heroic protagonist in the ancient Sanskrit epic the Ramayana who exhibits perfect adherence to the principals of justice, morality, and social harmony while undergoing extraordinary tests and challenges. Depicted with his traditional bow, Rama is flanked by his brother Lakshmana and wife Sita. Rama shared a fourteen-year exile with Lakshmana and Sita before destroying the demon Ravana and his armies and reclaiming his rightful place as king.

Images of deities carved in wood were likely used to decorate procession chariots on festival days.