Natesa

Kuram, Chengalpattu District. Height 53cm. 9th Century AD.

According to Bharata's Natyasastra this model is called Urdhvajanu. This is the only representation of Natesa in this pose in metal. The upper left hand holds a snake, instead of fire, a noteworthy feature. Draperies are beautifully moulded. Though the face is worn out, the modelling of the figure and the treatment of the ornaments and garments are unmistakably in the Pallava style.