IMG_3693

Matrika panel, 8 century A.D, Abhaneri, Dausa. Buff-sand stone panel of the 'Sapt Matrlka', seven goddesses. They are shown dancing with Vlrbhadra (emanation of Shiva} who holds a Veena. The Matrlkas include Maheshwari, Vaishnavi, Varahl, Kaumari, Indranl, Chamunda and Brahmani (last is missing}. Reference to the female Shakti forms of the principal deities is found in the Durga Saptasatl of the Markandeya Purana. They were created to vanquish the great demon Mahisasur. Such Matrika panels were sculpted from the 7th to the 13th Centuries when Tantrik worship grew in popularity.