A Vintage South Indian Golu Figure: Kartikeya

mid twentieth century
7" x 4 1/2" x 1 1/2", 17.75 cm x 11.5 cm x 3.75 cm

This good-sized, beautifully rendered and painted molded figure is what is called in South India a golu or kolu.

These figures--and there were many gods and goddesses depicted in the form of golu--were set out in traditional home displays in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh during the nine night Hindu festival called  Navratri.

This golu depicts Kartikeya the son of the god Shiva and his consort, the goddess Parvati.

Kartikeya, also called Murugan, Skanda, Subramanya and by other honorific names, is known as the god of war and is widely worshipped in South India, particularly in Tamil Nadu where he is held particularly sacred.

In this interesting, upright, monochrome relief of the god Kartikeya we see him standing entwined with his mount, the peacock.

As can be easily seen on the accompanying detail photographs, this golu shows a good deal of wear, patina and surface damage which add to its charm.

A beautiful and collectible image of the god Kartikeya with a good deal of age.

Recommended.