This is Simhavahini, the one who rides a lion. It depicts the Mother Goddess, Durga. Simhavahini bronzes tend to be in a folk or tribal style.

This Vigraha is a much-loved and venerated one. This must have been on a family’s altar for many generations. The ‘tejus’ it has acquired over the centuries is what made me retain it. Normally, I avoid Vigrahas with worn faces and/or eyes that are no longer discernible.

Her attributes include a bow, a sword, a shield (worn or missing) and a patra.

In this Vigraha, you can see the sculptor’s skill, the beading work on the base rims, the decoration of the prabhavali (even on the back), the embellishments on the prabhavali, the patterns on the necklace and the choker, the layered earrings, and the ornaments for the lion. Real touch.

This Vigraha is most likely from Central/North India. It is about 10 cm tall. Going by the wear, it can be dated to the eighteenth century.

This is the fourth Simhavahini in my collection. It adds depth to my collection. All four of them are shown below for your perusal.