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Monolithic Pillar

600s–700s
red sandstone
Overall: 109.9 x 25.4 cm (43 1/4 x 10 in.)
Edward L. Whittemore Fund 1938.14
Location: 243 Indian and Southeast Asian
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Description

The central motif of this temple pillar is a pot, out of which vegetal forms exuberantly emerge, indicating bounty and abundance. The pot itself is decorated with lotus petals, leaves, and a band of pearls. The overflowing pot is a pervasive symbol in India to reference the prosperity and productivity that will result from worship and prayers at the holy site. It also symbolizes the auspiciousness and beauty of the created world.
Monolithic Pillar

Monolithic Pillar

600s–700s

Northern India, Mathura, early medieval period, 7th-8th century

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