Simple in make and sophisticated in meaning, this brass and stone sculpture of Ardhanarishwara holds within its aesthetics the supreme wisdom and power of three realms. Emerging from a Vedi (altar) shaped platform, Ardhanarishwara replace the Shiva-Lingam in this composition, becoming an alternative representation of the primordial divine according to Hindu tradition- neither male nor female.
The right half of the figure is Shiva, adorned with his crescent moon, serpent, and tiger hide garment, holding the trident, a weapon of destruction, symbolizing his role as the cosmic destroyer. Complementing him is Parvati on the left, wearing exquisite garments and jewelry and carrying a lotus in her hand which is a symbol of the origin of life and fertility.
The damru (drum) tucked in her waistcloth too is a motif of life, the source of the first sound that declares the beginning of creation. The reverse of the statue with neat details of Shiva’s Jata (matted hair) and Parvati’s flowing tresses underline the efforts of the maker, who has given ample attention to each element of the artwork.
The use of stone in the base of the statue embraced by brass adds modern experimentation to the sculpture while securing its antique look. With a slight upward tilt of the head, hints of masculine stillness in Shiva, and feminine suppleness in Parvati, Ardhanarishwara seem to be proudly gazing at their creation, as the primeval guardian and creator.
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