As a symbol, Shiva Nataraja is a brilliant invention. It combines in a single image Shiva's roles as creator, preserver, and destroyer of the universe and conveys the Indian conception of the never-ending cycle of time.
Natraja is the depiction of the Tamil mythology Shaiva Siddhanta, as the cosmic ecstatic dancer. The sculpture is symbolic of Shiva as the lord of dance and dramatic arts. It typically shows Shiva dancing in one of the Natya Shastra poses, holding Agni or fire in his left back hand, the front hand in gajahasta or dandahasta mudra, the front right hand in abhaya (fearless) mudra while pointing to a Sutra text, and the back hand holding a traditional musical instrument. The dynamism of the energetic dance is depicted with the whirling hair which spread out in thin strands as a fan behind his head. This form of dance of Lord Shiva is called the tandavam.
DETAILS
- Made in India
- Measures: 4", 6" and 8"
- Material: Brass
- Weighs: varies
- Wipe with a soft cloth sprayed with pledge
