South-Indian Images of Gods and Goddesses c10.s2.60

c10.s2.60

"His army is represented by seven demons. Two of these are prostrated in the foreground—one slain and another wounded. The latter raises his right hand with two fingers raised. What is the meaning of this gesture? Is it that of a vanquished warrior imploring his victorious enemy to spare his life? Of the remaining *asuras* one is retreating, whereas the others seem to offer a feeble resistance. It is worthy of notice that with the exception of Mahishāsura himself, the demons are shown in a purely human shape."