Mid Century Nataraja Shiva Bronze Statue India Indian Antique Metal

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Shiva in Nataraja form in Bronze

A Chola style bronze Metal, molded through the ‘cire-perdue’ or lost-wax method* Statue, … Read more Shiva in Nataraja form in Bronze

A Chola style bronze Metal, molded through the ‘cire-perdue’ or lost-wax method* Statue, depicting one of the most revered of all Hindu deities, Shiva in Nataraja form.

From Tamil Nadu, South India.
Approximate Dimensions: Height 27 x 22 x 6 inch.

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.
Although it appeared in sculpture as early as the fifth century, its present, world-famous form evolved under the rule of the Cholas. Shiva's dance is set within a flaming halo.

The god holds in his upper right hand the damaru (hand drum that made the first sounds of creation). His upper left hand holds agni (the fire that will destroy the universe). With his lower right hand, he makes abhayamudra (the gesture that allays fear). The dwarflike figure being trampled by his right foot represents apasmara purusha (illusion, which leads mankind astray).

Shiva's front left hand, pointing to his raised left foot, signifies refuge for the troubled soul. The energy of his dance makes his hair fly to the sides. The symbols imply that, through belief in Shiva, his devotees can achieve salvation.

Seen here standing on a lotus base over a plinth, In dance firm, dressed in a short close-fitting dhoti draped in folds, secured with a sash, adorned with multiple necklaces, bracelets, and the sacred thread, the handsome and beautiful face flanked by long ears wearing large circular earrings on one side, arm bands and anklets and surmounted by a large headdress.

The solid brass statue captures the strength and dynamism in form and spirit, beautifully illustrates the benevolent divine grace in a timeless symbol.

Only one of these statues is ever made.

*Lost-wax Method or madhuchchhishtavidhana or cire perdue is the method of pouring molten metal into the hollow of a mould. See less