An Encyclopaedia of Indian Archaeology v1.c9.s19.25

v1.c9.s19.25

The artistic manipulation of the period is well-reflected in numerous terracotta renderings including those of gods and goddesses and secular association in diverse poses and expressions. They also reflect the prevailing iconographic norms and development of religious ideas and beliefs. Amongst notable figures in terracotta and kaolin mention may be made of representations of Durgā or Mahiṣa-mardinī, two-armed Gaṇeśa and a female flutist in *tri-bhaṅga*, a weeping human face (NAGAR¹) and Umā-Maheśvara and a flying figure (SAMBHAR), besides toy animals like humped bulls, camels, elephants, dogs, rams, tigers and a composite animal (*vyāghra-vyāla?*) and some birds (NAGAR¹). Along with moulded terracotta figures a few hand-modelled specimens were also found at the latter site. Some of these terracotta sculptures are characterized by extreme delicacy and sensuous modelling and grace of the movement and poses. Small stone plaques mostly belonging to the later part of the period depicted various divinities like Gaṇeśa, *nāga*, Sūrya, Lakṣmī, etc., and probably they were connected with personal worship.