When Nara-Narayana, an aspect of Vishnu was approached by the beauties of Indra’s court during his penance, he drew a gorgeous image on his thigh and blew life into it, giving birth to the heavenly nymph Urvashi. Inspired by the legendary beauty of Urvashi, and other delicate maidens who inspire Sringaar (the emotion of romance), in the heart of poets, artists, kings, and sages, Indian artisans have been sculpting their own Urvashis in stone for centuries. A jewel amongst them appears to be this sandstone statue of Apsara, who seems to be Rati (the wife of Kama, Lord of Love), descended from her realm. Her form, brimming with youth and beauty is the zenith of feminine allure as described in ancient Indian texts. Her hair is luxurious, secured in a coiffure that is adorned with various gemmed pieces, her brows are arched like the bow of Kama, her eyes like two lotus buds, her nose sharp, her lips mimicking the softness of a newly blossomed flower.
Her unblemished physique is ornamented with fine jewelry- one necklace clasping her neck, while the other flows on her torso like a perennial river flow in a mountain valley. Her perfect waist extends into two supple legs, formed like the banana tree trunk, full of the nurturing essence of life. With her hands, she holds a corner of her diaphanous dhoti, which slips slightly, strumming the cords of an enchanted onlooker’s mind. Embodying the nectar of Sringaar in her presence, the Apsara gazes downwardly, with an expected coyness, while smiling inwardly, with the prideful knowledge of having mesmerized the beings of the three realms.
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