Description

Śrī Lakṣmī – Goddess of Fortune and Wisdom (Nepal, 1300–1350)

This exceptional 77 cm tall wooden sculpture represents Śrī Lakṣmī, the Newar goddess of fortune, abundance, and spiritual wisdom. Carved from dense tropical hardwood and once richly polychromed, the figure exemplifies the finest Newar craftsmanship of the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal.

Dated to ca. 1300–1350, the statue stands in a composed, frontal attitude. Her right hand holds a closed lotus – symbol of purity and spiritual unfolding – while the left hand grasps a small pouch-like object, associated with wealth and prosperity. The continuous eyebrow line merging into the nasal bridge is a hallmark of early Malla-period Newar sculpture.

Microscopic and UV analysis confirm the presence of centuries-old pigment residues, oxidized gold traces, and natural surface aging. No modern restoration or synthetic coating was detected. Remnants of red, white, and black pigment remain visible on the face, chest, and ornaments.

A full technical and iconographic study of this sculpture is available on the 1stbuddha research page: Śrī Lakṣmī – Goddess of Fortune and Wisdom (Research & Documentation) .

Spiritual Meaning & Symbolism

• Goddess Identity: Śrī Lakṣmī – embodiment of fortune, purity, and spiritual wisdom.
• Attributes: Closed lotus in right hand (spiritual beauty); prosperity pouch in left hand (abundance).
• For the Spirit: Inspires clarity, gratitude, and detachment from material excess.
• Associated Virtues: Compassion, generosity, inner equilibrium, and the recognition of true wealth.

Dimensions & Details

• Height: 77 cm
• Width: 27 cm
• Depth: approx. 18 cm
• Weight: 7.1 kg
• Material: Tropical hardwood with traces of polychromy and gilding
• Origin: Kathmandu Valley, Nepal
• Date: ca. 1300–1350 CE (early Malla period)
• Condition: Structurally stable; no modern repairs; original pigments partially preserved
• Provenance: 1stbuddha Collection
• Comparative References:
  The Metropolitan Museum of Art – Standing Lakshmi (Goddess of Fortune), Nepal, 13th century
  Rubin Museum of Art – Lotus Goddess, Lakshmi, Nepal, 17th century (wood)
  more about this statue

Age Likelihood (Research Estimate)

• 1300–1350: 75%
• 1350–1450: 15%
• After 1800: <5%

Reconstructed Original Appearance

The sculpture originally featured deep red, gold, and black pigments across the surface. A red bindi, darkened eyebrows, and subtle kohl-lined eyes accentuated the expression, while soft crimson lips and gilded jewelry reflected oil-lamp light within temple interiors. These remnants survive as a silent testimony to centuries of ritual devotion and the enduring craftsmanship of Newar artisans.