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Shiva Nataraja

Date1600

Place of ManufactureAsia

MediumMaterial: bronze

DimensionsOverall: 22.2 x 16.5 cm Base: 8.9 cm

ClassificationsFINE ART

Credit LineGift of Marjorie Finlayson

Object number1996.049.002

DescriptionThe third and most important member of the Hindu Triad is Shiva, the Destroyer, to be ever propitiated by sacrifices, praises and prayers. Shiva is represented in benign or terrific moods and can be portrayed standing, sitting or dancing.
The best known images of Shiva are in metal as Nataraja, the Lord of the Dance, stamping out ignorance and evil by the whirlwind motion of frenzy. Shiva is not only synonymous with death but also with rebirth. Therefore, not only is he a destroyer but also a creator, and the rhythm he dances to is that of a world perpetually forming, dissolving and re-forming.
This fine statue represents the South India style.

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