Varanasi Flying Lakshmi

Dimensions: 20cm wide, 18cm high, 18cm long.
Code: WOOD 4021

A gorgeous hand-carved and hand-painted Lakshmi in pristine condition, sourced in Varanasi, in the central state of Uttar Pradesh. Lakshmi, who is married to the principal Hindu deity Vishnu, is the goddess of wealth, fortune, love, beauty, joy and prosperity. Lakshmi is adorned with a golden crown and in each of her upper hands she carries a lotus. She is riding on top of her owl vahanna (vehicle). Many people in India worship her at the start of each day hoping for prosperity and in some states Lakshmi is also worshiped as a fertility goddess. Diwali, the festival of lights is also a time dedicated to the worship of Lakshmi. This piece comes with a hook ready to hang.

The ancient city of Varanasi (also known as Kashi, Banaras and Benares) is located on the banks of the River Ganges. This sacred city is one of India’s most important pilgrimage sites and is one of the world’s oldest living cities. It is also home to a very special group of artisans who make beautiful hand-carved and hand-painted toys. Often these are made from one piece of wood and they are always painted with incredible detail. This ancient craft was recognised with GI status in 2015. The importance of carrying on the tradition is such that when a child is born into these families a new lathe is added to the family possessions.

This would make a lovely pair with Vishnu WOOD 3921.