“Alingana-murti”- the icon of Shiva-Parvati where the deities are embracing (alingana) one another, is a beautiful sculpture type, described in the ancient Shilpashastra and depicted on walls of many temples.
The divine romance of Shiva-Parvati is highlighted in such sculptures, similar to the one presented in this bronze composition from Swamimalai.
Chandrashekhara (wearing the moon in his locks) Shiva appears to be dancing joyously, forming a soft aramandi pose of classical dance, carrying Damru, agni, and the gesture of Abhaya with one hand extending to hold Uma.
Dressed in a beautifully detailed dhoti and ornaments, Uma-Parvati blissfully gazes at her beloved, as if admiring his unparalleled beauty.
The poses and expressions of the divine couple bring an emotive quality to the metal composition, as if a conversation, an exchange of energy between the duo has been imagined by the artist.
A yet-to-bloom lotus flower, a symbol of the origin of the Universe, rests in Parvati’s hand, as if signaling the moment of Shiva-Parvati’s union, which is at the core of the creation of the cosmos.
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