A CHAM GRANITE SCULPTURE OF NANDI Champa, 10th - 14th century. The caparisoned holy bull powerfully carved in a recumbent position with feet tucked under, the head held upright with large eyes and protruding ears, the imposing horns atop the head. Provenance: Hungarian private collection. By repute acquired before 1960 and thence by descent within the same family. Condition: Excellent condition with old wear, natural age cracks and erosion, strong weathering, small losses, and dark encrustations. Dimensions: Height 42 cm, Length 52 cm Nandi is Shiva's mount and the gatekeeper of Shiva in Hindu mythology. He is seen as full of ‘joy’ (nandi) in the presence of his master. An image of controlled virility and devotion, he would typically be placed in front of a Shiva temple facing a shrine. Auction result comparison: Compare with a related Cham granite Nandi, dated to the 14th century, at Christie’s New York, Indian and Southeast Asian Art, 19 September 2002, lot 199, sold for USD 15,353.