Indonesia, Central Java, 9th century

Compare the face and headdress to the contemporaneous Nairrita figure at the British Museum (J. Fontein, The Sculpture of Indonesia, 1990, p.128, cat.8). The striking resemblance lies in the peaceful expressions, realized with smooth, broad eyelids, full soft lips and a rounded jawline. Both also have an elaborate headdress with a central floret above the triple hairline. Impressive in size and quality of carving, this head is an elegant example of the quietly emotive forms achieved by Central Javanese stone carvers.