Medieval Indian stele representing Vishnu in solar form – Beige sandstone – 12th/13th century.

Prithivi, the earth mother goddess, a symbol of abundance and nourishment in Hindu-Buddhist cosmology.

Standing on a multi-tiered circular pedestal adorned with lotus petals, this voluptuous female figure is modeled with serene dignity and symbolic richness. The face is serene, with almond-shaped eyes beneath a continuous brow, a slight smile, and full, rounded features often associated with fertility. The hair is neatly parted and tied back with a cord, revealing large kundala (circular earrings). She wears a thick necklace with a large floral pendant, kangkana (bracelets), and a prominent kuchabhanda (breast ornament) that extends across her torso. A smooth paridhana (sarong) wraps around the lower body and falls to her feet. On her head rests a concave vessel, likely once used as an oil lamp, offering holder, or architectural element. Provenance: Acquired in the Trowulan region in the late 20th century by Paolo Bertuzzi and subsequently passed down through the family. Paolo Bertuzzi (1943–2022) was a fashion designer from Bologna, Italy. He was the son of Enrichetta Bertuzzi, founder of Hettabretz, a renowned Italian fashion house whose clients included the Rothschild family, Audrey Hepburn, and Elizabeth Taylor. Paolo Bertuzzi later took over the family business and created exclusive pieces, some of which were exhibited at the Costume Institute of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. He was also a passionate collector of antiquities for over 60 years. His collection included both ancient and contemporary works of art. He also edited two important books on Asian art: *Goa Made – An Archaeological Discovery* and *Majapahit – Masterpieces from a Forgotten Kingdom*, both documenting significant excavation projects conducted in collaboration with the Indonesian and Italian governments.