Title
Shri Yantra on Kurma
Year/Period
19th century
Region
South India
Object Type
Material
Technique
Dimension
Object size: L 22.8x W 16 x H 9.5
Accession No.
1996-00494
Collection of
The Shri Yantra, is a ritual object representing the goddess Shri Lakshmi using an abstract geometric form, the yantra. This form is conceived using tantric concepts to form a tapering mountain called Meru. In tantric rituals, the triangles pointing upwards symbolize Shiva, and those downwards, Devi. The Mount Meru shape rests on a kurma (tortoise). The kurma is an incarnation of Vishnu. Devotees invoke the blessings of Lakshmi by performing ritual worship such as chanting, offering flowers and kumkum (vermilion powder) to this ritual object.
