CHAMUNDA STANDS ON SAVA

Very good overall condition. Minute abrasions to pigment in the sky above with a pinhole at the center of the image, beneath the outstretched left elbow of the goddess. Minor scuffing to pigments on lower ground the colors are slightly deeper in reality. This lot is exhibited in a temporary frame.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The fearsome Goddess Chamunda stands triumphantly on the prostrate naked figure of a corpse (Sava) within a flaming circle, her tongue licking outward.  Depicted blue and wearing a leopard skin around her naked waist.  Her four arms hold a kapala (skull bowl) severed head and scissors with another pair of scissors open at the throat of the prostrate Sava.  Auspicious golden "coins" fall, as snakes writhe around her, a pair of jackals to her left and right.  Against a flat mustard-yellow curving hillside, two slender finely-leaved saplings press upwards.

“If Shiva is united with Sakti he is able to exert his powers as lord - if not the God is unable to stir.” S. Kramrisch, Manifestations of Shiva, Philadelphia Museum of Art, 1981, cat. P48, p. 218.