The first Prakasha or section of the Indian text Shilpaprakasha, a treatise on architecture and sculpting talks about a popular element in Indian temple art- beauteous young women, in different postures and forms adorning the walls and other parts of the sanctum with their grace. These enchanting maidens are called “Alasya Kanya” or idle women, a name derived from their laid-back attitude and bodily posture in which their allure is best displayed by the sculptor. According to the Shilpaprakasha- “As a Vaasa (home) and Kreeda (playfulness) is incomplete without the presence of a young woman, so is art without the imagery of the feminine, fruitless and devoid of pleasure.” The numbers of Alasya Kanya are 16 or 32 or even more, but the essence of these stunning female icons is one- the artistic exaltation of fertility and auspiciousness possessed by women.
One of the most recurring motifs from the Alasya Kanya retinue is the lady with a mirror, also known as Darpana- she who holds a darpana or mirror. This brass Darpana statue depicts a young maiden engrossed in gazing at her beauty, which can mesmerize humans, gods, Yakshas, and Gandharvas (celestial beings). The mirror lady is instated on a wide platform decorated with incised marks and interplay of green and red inlay work. Her angelic body is resplendently postured in the triple-bent pose, extending her upper and lower parts in opposite directions bringing an aesthetic balance to this brass Darpana statue. Her hair is secured in a tight bun, Dehri (circular earrings), Mala (necklace), Kangana (bracelet), and a Mekhala (girdle) with large bells hanging from its tassels accentuate the beauty of her glistening physique. Using thin brass wires and round and square inlay pieces, the maker of this brass mirror lady has materialized an artistically rich and flamboyant Indian artwork. The lady has her left hand placed on her head, applying vermillion in her hair parting- a symbol of auspiciousness in Hindu married women. Decked up and gazing at her Roopa (beauty) in the mirror she holds, the brass Darpana is every Indian lady, awaiting the arrival of her beloved husband- the very picture of conjugal bliss and propitiousness.
How to keep a Brass statue well-maintained?
Brass statues are known and appreciated for their exquisite beauty and luster. The brilliant bright gold appearance of Brass makes it appropriate for casting aesthetic statues and sculptures. Brass is a metal alloy composed mainly of copper and zinc. This chemical composition makes brass a highly durable and corrosion-resistant material. Due to these properties, Brass statues and sculptures can be kept both indoors as well as outdoors. They also last for many decades without losing all their natural shine.
Brass statues can withstand even harsh weather conditions very well due to their corrosion-resistance properties. However, maintaining the luster and natural beauty of brass statues is essential if you want to prolong their life and appearance.
In case you have a colored brass statue, you may apply mustard oil using a soft brush or clean cloth on the brass portion while for the colored portion of the statue, you may use coconut oil with a cotton cloth.
Brass idols of Hindu Gods and Goddesses are especially known for their intricate and detailed work of art. Nepalese sculptures are famous for small brass idols portraying Buddhist deities. These sculptures are beautified with gold gilding and inlay of precious or semi-precious stones. Religious brass statues can be kept at home altars. You can keep a decorative brass statue in your garden or roof to embellish the area and fill it with divinity.
For privacy concerns, please view our Privacy Policy
Send as free online greeting card
Email a Friend
Manage Wishlist