Mediaeval Temples of the Dakhan c9.s6.3

c9.s6.3

The wooden images, bedaubed with red paint and much weatherworn, were found lying in the inner courtyard. They are worshipped by the people under the names of Kharujālī and Mahāmārī. An examination of them shows that they are Roman Catholic images, probably taken from some old ruined church in or about Sālsette. "Mahāmārī" (? Mahā-Marie) is a representation of the Annunciation, in which the Virgin Mary stands upon a crescent moon with a crown upon her head and clothed in flowing garments. Around her, forming an oval frame, is a garland of flowers. The other image is that of St. Anne, with the infant Mary upon her knee. The first was probably a panel in a church door or screen, while the second is a complete statue which may have come from a niche.