Shiva as Nataraja, Nepalese Bronze

Unusual Bronze Shiva as Nataraja

Nepal

18th-19th century

height: 23.3cm

Most representations of Shiva as Nataraja or Lord of Dance have their origins in southern India. This example is from Nepal. In this image, Shiva dances before a flaming detachable aureole that is unusually rendered. He has been cast with no less than fourteen arms.

Each of the rear arms holds various symbols associated with Shiva such as the trident, skull drum and so on. A half-moon symbol is cast on Shiva’s head. Muchalagan, the demon of darkness and ignorance, lies crowned but defeated beneath Shiva’s right foot. He still manages to hold a sword aloft.

Shiva’s face has been cast with typically Nepalese characteristics and unlike southern Indian versions, this image does not sport flying hair. Instead, Shiva’s hair is gathered neatly to the top of his head, which is surrounded by a disc.

The group sits on a semi-circular pedestal cast with a lotus petal border.

Inventory no.: 455

SOLD