Description: Copper bronze
Northern India, Kondh Tribe, late 19th – early 20th century
This expressive sculpture is a work by a member of the Kondh tribe in Northern India. Depicted is a mother holding her two twin babies close to her body. Her hair is tied back and in her face we see typical Kondh tribe facial tattoos. She is wearing ornate jewelry, yet most remarkable are her tubular breasts. Clearly this sculpture symbolizes fertility and birth giving.
Kondhs or Kandhs, are one of the largest tribal groups in Odisha, inhabiting the entire area around Ganjam and Phulbani districts till the forested lands of Telangana. They are also found in the Koraput, Kalahandi and Belangir districts. Divided into many sub-groups, the prominent amongst them are the Kuttia Kondhs, Maliah Kondhs and Dongaria Kondhs. Up to this day they maintain very strong animist beliefs with different animals and birds having their own symbolism and role. Bronze figurines of peacocks, chameleons, frogs, serpents, crabs, horses, deer, tigers, elephants, human figures and musicians were cast using the cire perdue (lost-wax technique) process to be used as playthings as well as alter pieces.
Shape: Figural
Dimensions: 30 cm (height), 18 cm (length),
Weight: 2,1 kilograms
Condition: Very good condition with appealing patina
Provenance: Austrian private collection