Makara Dragon at The Guimet Museum, Paris

myminifactory

Makara (Sanskrit: makar) is a sea-creature in Hindu mythology that's often depicted as half terrestrial animal in the frontal part, with forms of an elephant, crocodile, stag, or deer, and in the hind part as an aquatic animal in the form of a fish or seal tail. Sometimes, even a peacock tail is shown. Makara is the vahana (vehicle) of Ganga - the goddess of river Ganges (Ganga) and sea god Varuna. It's also the insignia of love god Kamadeva, who's known as Makaradhvaja (one whose flag features a makara). Makara is the astrological sign of Capricorn, one of the twelve symbols of the Zodiac. It's often portrayed protecting entryways to Hindu and Buddhist temples. In ornaments, makara symbolized are also used as popular wedding gifts for bridal decoration. The Hindu Preserver-god Vishnu is shown wearing makara-shaped earrings called Makarakundalas. The Sun god Surya and Mother Goddess Chandi are sometimes described as being adorned with Makarakundalas. This object is part of "Scan The World". Scan the World is a non-profit initiative introduced by MyMiniFactory, through which we're creating a digital archive of fully 3D printable sculptures, artworks, and landmarks from across the globe for public access. Scan the World is an open source, community effort. If you have interesting items around you and would like to contribute, email stw@myminifactory.com to find out how you can help.