Veera Anjaneya

Veera anjaneya Paduka

This is Veera Anjaneya, a form of Hanuman. The earliest known such images of Vira Anjaneya are linked to the Vijayanagar period.

Hanuman is seen striding within a circular frame and his ornamentation is profuse (Necklaces, armband, wristbands, anklets, waistband…) and elaborate.

Among the features not be missed are the Vaisnavite symbols Chakra (Discuss)  below his upraised right palm and Shanka (Conch) at about his neck level on his left, the dagger attached to his waist on his right, his trampling of demon Aksha Kumara, son of Ravana. (Thanks to Twitterati @Madhvahistory for the information about Aksha Kumara).

His right hand is in Abhaya mudra (protective gesture) and the left hand is carrying a tree branch.  The Vanamala, garland of flowers,  stretching below his knees is normally a feature of Vishnu especially in bronzes from North India.

This is the second of Veera Anjaneya and was meant to replace the other Veera Anjaneya.  See photos below. The noticeable differences Rama’s figure above Anjaneya’s head and the Anjaneya wearing Padukas (footwear) influenced me to keep both. Hindu Gods wearing footwear is an interesting subject. We will get to that topic later.

This is a cast bronze but the backside is hollow. This is meant to be hung on the wall.

Some of the literature mention this form was used as a pendant around the neck.  Given the size (18cm across and 21 cm top-to-bottom) such use does not seem likely.

This Vigraha may not date prior to the nineteenth century. It could be from anywhere in South India, Karnataka is the most likely place.

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