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Indian Chola Bronze Hanuman Monkey God Ramayana Antique Large Heavy - $5,999 (Newport Beach Orange County)
condition:
excellent
make / manufacturer:
Handmade
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This bronze sculpture depicts Hanuman, the devoted monkey god and ardent follower of Rama, shown here in añjali mudr (gesture of reverence) with both hands joined at the chest in prayer. The figure stands upright with elongated proportions, slightly flexed knees, and feet placed firmly together. His long tail curves upward and rests against the back, a characteristic feature of Hanuman imagery. The modeling emphasizes his simian face with pronounced snout and expressive eyes, while the body is adorned with ornaments, including necklaces, armlets, and a short dhoti tied at the waist.
The piece bears a dark patina, enriched by surface encrustations and traces of ritual use, suggestive of long veneration. The stylistic simplicity combined with devotional posture indicates its function as an object of household or temple worship, reinforcing Hanuman’s role as the epitome of humility, loyalty, and strength in Hindu tradition.
Hanuman plays a central role in the Ramayana. He is celebrated for his superhuman feats, including leaping across the ocean to Lanka in search of Sita, carrying the mountain with the sanjeevani herb to save Lakshmana’s life, and burning the city of Lanka with his fiery tail. In each of these acts, Hanuman embodies unwavering devotion to Rama, serving as a model for the virtues of courage, service, and faith.
This mid 20th century example belongs to the South Indian revival bronze tradition, where Hanuman was especially revered in the context of Rama cults. Comparable bronzes from the Vijayanagara period show similar prayerful depictions, highlighting his importance as a model devotee and protector.
Hanuman is standing on a lotus base over a plinth, holding a mace, dressed in a short close-fitting dhoti secured with a sash tied on either side with engraved decoration, adorned with multiple necklaces, bracelets, and the sacred thread, the handsome face flanked by his long ears wearing large circular earrings, arm bands and anklets and surmounted by a conical headdress.
The monkey god standing equipoise, his elongated tail curled upwards to form a mandala behind the head. His left hand in 'abhaya mudra'.
Hanuman is known for his loyalty, his faithful and steadfast service to Lord Rama as told in the Ramayana epic
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