brick; Architecture, terracotta, India

Terracotta brick, modelled, in a countersunk panel with the figure of a sleeping man with long hair (Dutch influence?).
Terracotta brick, modelled.

Purchased from Mrs Kate Spencer

One of ten examples (IM.31 to 40-1909) purchased from Mrs Kate Spencer in 1909, all architectural details in terracotta from the same Hindu temple in Varanasi.

Purchased from Mrs Kate Spencer, 7 Nevern Place, Earl's Court, S.W. This acquisition information reflects that found in the Museum records (Asia Department registers and/or Central Inventory) as part of a 2023 provenance research project.

RP 4652/1909

From an unusual tradition of "carved" terracotta plaques and panels that narrate myths and legends, where entire temples of terracotta, built some time during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries, have been executed in this style, whose origins may be traced to the wooden rathas or stone carvings of relief panels on temples and stupas. The technique of "carving", rather than modelling, these panels involves the scooping out of unwanted clay around a previously inscribed design on the plain surface of the tile. This is done before firing when it is semi-dry, so that only a sharp-edged knife is required.

From a Hindu temple at Varanasi

IM.35-1909