India Carved Stone Stele of Lord Bhairava

South India, Ca 11th to 12th century AD Bhairava is a fierce defender and protects his devotees from enemies like ignorance. He is depicted on this sizeable stone stela in a standing position with four arms, ornamented with a range of twisted serpents, which serve as earrings, bracelets, anklets. He has a has a dog (Shvan) as his divine vahana (vehicle).  His weapons are drum, pāśa (noose), trident and skull.  His weapons, the dog, protruding teeth, terrifying looks, and a garland with red flowers all give him a frightening appearance. There is a similar work at the Guimet Museum, Paris. Size: 31 inches H + custom mount. Condition: Surface wear, minor chips throughout with  mossy encrustation from being outdoors. Ex David Swope, Westchester NY Collection from the 1970s-1980s.