In the Vayaveeya Sanhita of the Shiva Maha Purana, the appearance of Shiva-Shakti as “Ardhanarishwara” upon the Stuti (prayer) by Lord Brahma has been narrated by Vaayu Deva, the Hindu god of wind.
At the beginning of his creation, Brahmaji was unable to find a way in which the various species could procreate and expand the Srishti (creation).
Inspired by his “Buddhi” or wisdom, Lord Brahma meditated upon Shiva, who revealed himself as “Ardhanarishwara” highlighting the balance of male and female, Purusha and Prakriti, that is at the base of the process of creation.
In this enchanting white marble statue of Ardhanarishwara, Shiva and Parvati are represented as the source of Brahma’s Srishti. Shiva with a crescent moon and a stream of river-goddess Ganga adorning his matted locks, a serpent around his neck, Baagha-charma (hide of the tiger) as his clothing, and his Trishul (trident) in his hand is the pinnacle of the powers of Purusha (primordial male). Goddess Parvati holding a Kamandalu (ascetic’s water pot) and a fresh lotus-bud (a symbol of the beginning of the creationary process) is draped in a lovely sari and queenly ornaments. She is the enabler of Lord Brahma, “Para-Shakti” (the primordial feminine potency), as the point of origin of all female life forms, with whom the vision of procreation is achieved.
The use of white marble in this Ardhanarishwara icon has increased the divine aesthetic quality of the statue four-fold. A blue-tinted halo marks the celestial aura of Ardhanarishwara. Tiny jewels are used to decorate the marble stone Ardhanarishvara statue. Shiva’s eye is half-closed, signifying his eternal yogic state, while the fully opened eye of goddess Parvati signifies her active presence in the Srishti. Together, Shiva-Shakti in this white marble Ardhanarishwara statue, are the divine father and mother whose benedictions are what lies beneath every aspect of the universe.
How to clean and maintain marble statues?
Marble has been a preferred material for sculptors and artists for more than a thousand years. It is a rock that undergoes metamorphism which causes recrystallization of the original carbonate mineral grains. Marble comes in various colors, designs, and dimensions. Pure white marble is the most preferred type of marble for making sculptures and statues since time immemorial. White marble is especially used for sculpting stone monumental sculptures since ancient times. The natural shine and luster of the carbonate crystals of white marble give a lavish and beautiful appearance to the statue.
Marble stone statues are highly durable and can even withstand harsh weather conditions without getting corroded, therefore, they can be kept indoors or outdoors without getting damaged or weathered. Although these statues can last for many decades, their regular care and cleaning are essential to increase their longevity and beautiful appearance.
Marble statues need periodical cleaning to maintain their flawless look. However, harsh and deep cleaning can result in making the statue look dull. If your marble statue is withering away, it is recommended to take the help of a professional cleaner. Marble is a delicate material and therefore needs proper care.
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