Dravidian architecture is a style of southern India and evolved around the 6th century A.D. Part of that architecture involved the use of Yali mythological creatures seen in many Hindu temples such as: the Yali pillars of the Rameshwara Temple and the Agoreshwara Temple at Ikkeri. Yali sculptures became prominent in the 16th Century. This delightful and gorgeous statue was acquired in the mid-1940s from an art dealer in the city of Madurai but is believed to have carved in the early 1900’s in the Karaikudi District. I acquired it from a New Jersey art dealer in 2002.
This is very rare in this perfect condition. From my personal collection.
For the Serious Collector.
The Yali has sold. Many thanks to K.G. !!!