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Collections

Unknown
Pendant with a Siddha (?)8th-9th century

Not on view
Small bronze pendant with heavy green patina, featuring a seated figure in relief within a circular arch rimmed with flame-like projections, with a suspension loop at top
Artist or Maker
Unknown
Title
Pendant with a Siddha (?)
Place Made
India, Jammu and Kashmir, Kashmir region (?)
Date Made
8th-9th century
Medium
Copper alloy
Dimensions
3 1/2 x 3 1/8 x 1/8 in. (8.89 x 7.93 x .31 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of Daniel Ostroff
Accession Number
AC1999.239.1
Classification
Jewelry and Adornments
Collecting Area
South and Southeast Asian Art
Curatorial Notes

This openwork, unbacked circular pendant with a border of flames depicts an enigmatic personage. According to John and Susan Huntington, it likely represents an enlightened Vajrayana Buddhist tantric teacher known as a siddha (male) or a siddha woman (personal communication to Stephen Markel, 1999).

The figure is seated on a splayed tiger skin on a platform with treasure pots (kalashas) displayed in front. S/he has their knees drawn up and bound by a meditation band (yogabanda). The robed figure has long hair and wears a necklace. The left hand is held against the chest and may hold a cup. The right hand is relaxed at the side.