Tamil Nadu
Wood with traces of polychroming
A decorative, small chariot panel depicting Kartikeya (also known as Subrahmanyam, Murugan or Skanda). His consorts Devasena and Valli stand on either side and his peacock vahana stands by his feet. A prabhavali topped by a kirtimukha (face of glory) surrounds the deity.
Karttikeya is the god of war and ruler of the planet Mars. Generally thought of as the son of Shiva and Parvati. He is shown riding or standing near his peacock, a symbol of immortality, carrying various weapons, such as a club, battle-axe and chisel, and his typical weapon, the spear.
Chariots of Tamil Nadu, locally called ter, are intricate wooden structures of monumental size. The lower portion of the chariots are completely covered with timber panels carved with a wide range of figural and animal sculptures. These friezes, which constitute the finest wooden sculptures in the region, can be viewed only during the chariot festival; for the remainder of the year the chariots are parked in shelters to protect them from the sun and rain.
Size (cms): 29(H) x 34(W) x 8.5(D)
Size (inches): 11.5(H) x 13.5(W) x 3.5(D)
