Figure, of a female musician

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This ivory figure of a female musician comes from Bengal in East India, and dates to the 15th century.

The figure and pedestal are carved from a single piece of ivory. The back of the pedestal is flat with an incised lozenge-pattern. The front is curved with borders at the top and bottom of lotus leaves. In the middle is a raised horizontal band, and a diapered indented border on either side of it.

The figure, worked in great detail with elaborate jewellery and garments, holds a vina, one of the most popular instruments in classical Indian music. The position of her feet suggests that she may be dancing.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-180-000-558-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland Part 2
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  A.1958.132
• Date: 15th century
  
• Material: Ivory, carved
  Figure / female / musician
  
• Dimensions: 7.88" H; base 2.25" D
  
• What: Figure / female / musician
  
• Subject: Carved ivory and bone
  
• Who:
• Where: India, Bengal
  
• Event:
• Description: Figure in carved ivory of a female musician playing a tambura: North East Indian, Bengal, 15th century
  
• References:
• Translations:
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