A Vintage South Indian Golu or Kolu: Goddess Durga and Lion

mid twentieth century
10 1/2" x 7" x 4", 26.5 cm x 18 cm x 10 cm

This 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 the goddess Durga, a mother goddess who is also a "warrior." Her fearsome appearance and wildly forceful powers are said to slay evil and quell demonic forces assailing the terrestrial and cosmic realms. 

In this good-sized, beautifully colored and detailed sculptural image of Durga we seen her riding her mount, the lion. She is shown in a contemplative state, sitting cross-legged on her lion, in her hands she hold objects that symbolize her various supernatural powers. 

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 beautifully, soulful and collectible image of the goddess Lakshmi with a good deal of age.