Peacock vehicle

Title
Peacock vehicle
Year/Period
19th-20th centuries
Region
Tamil Nadu, South India
Material
Dimension
Gross measurement: 197.0 x 94.0 x 185.0 cm
Accession No.
1995-01827

This larger-than-life peacock represents the 'vahana' (vehicle) of Kartikeya or Murugan. The fully spread out feathers of this bird lend a majestic look to this piece. The peacock has a snake in its beak while a five-hooded snake lies under him.During temple processions, bronze images of deities are placed on such vehicles, which are then mounted on a car that goes round the temple courtyard.