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Surya is considered the source of light. His origins can be traced to the earliest Indian text, the Rigveda, and his conventional West Asian mode of dress affirms his links to the solar cults of early Iran. He wears a tunic and high boots typical of early Iranian imagery and holds two lotuses in full bloom—emblems of the power of the sun.
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Title: Surya, the Hindu Solar Deity
Period: early Malla period
Date: 14th century
Culture: Nepal (Kathmandu valley)
Medium: Copper alloy
Dimensions: H. 5 in. (12.7 cm); W. 3 5/8 in. (9.2 cm); D. 2 1/4 in. (5.7 cm)
Classification: Sculpture
Credit Line:
Purchase, William Spielman Bequest, in memory of William and Bette-Ann Spielman, 2009
Accession Number: 2009.225
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