A Vintage South Indian Golu or Kolu: Murugan

mid twentieth century
10" x 3 3/4" x 3", 25.5 cm x 9.5 cm x 7.5 cm

This charmingly 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 god Murugan, also referred to as Kartikkeya, Skanda or Subramahnya in South India. Kartiekkeya or Murugan is the son of Shiva and in some legends his mother is the star constellation, the Pleiades. His brother is the always popular elephant god, Ganesha. 

Murugan is the god of war and the slayer of evil. He is often portrayed as a young man and shown with his mount, a peacock.

Here we see youthful Murugan in a standing position. His skin tone is a pale blue-green. He is heavily adorned with regal attire: a tall, golden crown, thick and numerous gold necklaces, a flower garland a silk sarong. He is holding attributes or war and power which identify him.

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

This is a beautifully soulful and good-sized rendering of the popular god Kartikkeya with good age and a great personality.

Beautiful.