This is Annapurna, depicted in the Tribanga pose, holding a ladle and pot in her hands. She stands upon a Padmapeetha, which is supported by a Bhadrapeetha.

While Annapurna is revered throughout India, the majority of the bronze representations we encounter originate from Maharashtra or the Western Deccan. However, this particular Vigraha originates from Tamil Nadu, evident through its distinct features such as the Tribanga pose, Kosavum (the small projecting part of the saree at the back), the base design, and the style of the crown. Further details about Annapurna can be found in another blog dedicated to her.

Standing Annapurna are rarer compared to seated Annapurna. In the book ‘Change and Continuity: Folk and Tribal Art of India‘ on page 57 there are two examples of folk-style standing Annapurna. They are referred to as Ambika in that book, incorrectly I think.

This bronze is about 8 cm in height. The face shows significant ritual wear. This may date to the eighteenth century or earlier.