A large Tibetan bronze and copper model of Narasimha

A large Tibetan bronze and copper model of Narasimha, standing on a lotus throne in a fierce stance, with teeth bared, his left arm raised, the base with a long inscription, 16th/17th century, old wear and traces of pigment, 29cm. Narasimha is an avatar of Vishnu and one of Hinduism's most popular deities. He is often visualized as one who takes the form of half-man, half-lion, having a human-like torso, but with a lion-like face and claws. This image is widely worshipped by a significant number of Vaishnava groups especially in Southern India. He is known primarily as the 'Great Protector' who specifically defends his devotees in their times of need.