The Goddess Uma

Terms of Use
Usage Conditions ApplyAt A Glance
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Period
10th century -
Geography
Cambodia -
Material
Sandstone -
Dimension
H x W x D: 124.2 x 37.5 x 24.3 cm (48 7/8 x 14 3/4 x 9 9/16 in) -
Accession Number
S1987.909 -
EDAN ID
edanmdm:fsg_S1987.909
Object Details
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Description
UmaCambodia, 10th centurySandstoneGift of Arthur M. SacklerArthur M. Sackler Gallery S1987.909The Power of the FeminineKhmer artists depicted the goddess Uma with regal stability. Here, she stands facing fully forward, her body neither twisting nor bending. Her long skirt (sampot) creates a strong columnar base. At the same time, her bare chest, pinched waist, and broad hips emphasize her femininity and fertility. Although the artists left upper bodies bare—as was conventional in Khmer dress—look for intricate designs on the headdress and belt. These patterns are inspired by nature, including leaves and flowers.Over time, artists modified details of sculptural style, including bodily proportions, facial features, ornaments, and pleats in clothing. Uma’s heavy breasts and straight brow, and the skirt’s wide upper flap, suggest a date of circa 900–925 for this sculpture. -
Previous custodian or owner
William H. Wolff, Inc. (1906-1991)Dr. Arthur M. Sackler (1913-1987) -
Provenance
?-at least 1972Probably William H. Wolff, Inc., method of acquisition unknown [1]From at least 1972-1987Arthur M. Sackler (1913-1987), probably purchased from William H. Wolff, Inc. [2]From 1987Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, gift of Arthur M. Sackler [2]Notes:[1] See the “Arthur M. Sackler Gallery Gift Inventory,” number 72.11.13, copy in object file. This collection number suggests that Sackler acquired the object in 1972.Arthur M. Sackler likely purchased from William H. Wolff, Inc., see document written on William H. Wolff letterhead, “Dr. Sackler Selection” (undated), stock number 02/343, where an object is described as “White [s]andstone Khmer UMA 11th [cent.],” copy in object file.[2] See note 1.[3] Pursuant to the agreement between Arthur M. Sackler and the Smithsonian Institution, dated July 28, 1982, legal title of the donated objects was transferred to the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery on September 11, 1987.Research Completed October 17, 2022 -
Origin
Cambodia -
Credit Line
Gift of Arthur M. Sackler -
Type
Sculpture -
Restrictions and Rights
Usage Conditions Apply
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