This is Sitarama. Identification of the deity without attributes and/or vahana is always a challenge. But in this case the task is simpler as we have a bronze ensemble which gives the context, and the identification becomes a non-problem. See the Ram Durbar below.

For details on Sitarama see the Vijayanagar example with me.

A few years ago, I had a chance to discuss a Sitarama Vigraha with one of the dealers, Surendran. He was of the view such show of affection and closeness is not common among South India bronzes, especially Tamil bronzes. So, it was a pleasant surprise to find this Tamil Nadu Vigraha.

The little Kosuvam, protruding piece of cloth, at the back is an indication that the Vigrah is from Tamil Nadu. The incised patterns on the base, Padmapeetham and Bhadrapeetham, reinforce the geographical attribution.

The design on the Kosuvam gave me additional reason to retain it. See the picture to our right. While at the design, note the ‘raised aspect’ of the ornaments as compared to incised design. This is an indication of the skill of the artisan.

The Vigrah is about 9.5 cm in height and possibly dates to the nineteenth century.