1950s Mid Century South Indian Brass Statue of Shiva's Bull Nandi Metal Antique

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This Sacred Bronze Nandi Sculpture captures the calm strength and unwavering devotion of Shiva’s revered bull. Crafted with meticulous detail, … Read more This Sacred Bronze Nandi Sculpture captures the calm strength and unwavering devotion of Shiva’s revered bull. Crafted with meticulous detail, Nandi sits in a posture of quiet readiness, symbolizing loyalty, patience, and spiritual guidance. Rich gold tones enhance its intricate carvings, creating a timeless piece that radiates serenity and protection in any sacred or contemplative space.

Dimensions: 6" H X 7.5" W X 4.5" D

the sacred animal depicted in a recumbent position atop a oval plinth. The young bull resting its weight on the right side, with the right hind leg folded beneath its massive body, and its tail extending gracefully to the right, its tip draped over the left hind leg. A prominent hump rises behind its neck, which is adorned with a large necklace composed of circular ornaments. The head, exquisitely sculpted, is held upright with refined poise. The almond-shaped eyes are open and alert, flanked by large funnel-shaped ears, below the short horns, while the closed muzzle conveys a serene and composed expression—its gaze once directed toward the sanctuary entrance.

As with the Scythians, northern Chinese and caucasians, animals were of great importance to India's agrarian society, and to this extant records in art bear handsome testimony. The bull Nandi is ubiquitous in Shaivism. The docile beast is Shiva’s constant companion and Mount. Perennially facing the shrine in Shaiva temple compounds, Nandi’s presence is highly evocative of bovine sexual potency. Additionally, Shivas procreative powers are equally expressed through Nandi. Restraint over bestial instincts is provided by Shiva riding Nandi.
Not only does this statue establish the bull’s sanctity in Saivism, but in doing so hints at the mythical quality of Nandi, and us a towering achievement in all animal sculpture See less