Although people were able to see representations of their gods
as decoration on the outside of religious buildings, sculptures
such as the one seen here, were the first sacred artifacts seen
by people outside of the temple. Most of the time, they were
only seen by the temple priests inside the private, innermost
chambers of the temple. However the rings at the bottom of this
object allowed temple priests to carry the sculpture in
religious ceremonies. Therefore, the common people were able to
see their deities and the deities were able to see their
devotees. At all times, the sculpture was elaborately decorated
with jewels and flowers, such as marigolds. Priests poured gold
infused water and milk over the sculpture to serve as a ritual
washing. Unidentified Maker, India 15 inches H; 12 1/4 inches W;
6 inches D Museum purchase in honor of David T. Owsley 118-125
CE The Pantheon is constructed in Rome. 220 CE The Han Dynasty
in China comes to an end. 720 CE Islamic Caliphate invades
India; Islam practiced in In