19" Nataraja - Dancing Lord Shiva | Madhuchista Vidhana (Lost-Wax) | Panchaloha Bronze from Swamimalai

Email

Whatsapp

Facebook

Pinterest

Twitter

Copy link

The Cosmic Dancer

Behold the magnificent depiction of Shiva as Nataraja, the Lord of Dance. This exquisite statue captures the dynamic energy and profound symbolism embodied in this iconic representation of the Hindu deity. Nataraja is not merely a dancer, but the embodiment of cosmic activity, the ceaseless rhythm of creation, preservation, and destruction that sustains the universe. His dance is the dance of life itself, a perpetual cycle of becoming and unbecoming. The intricate details of this sculpture invite you to contemplate the deeper meanings woven into this powerful image.

Iconography and Symbolism

Nataraja’s form is rich with symbolism. His raised left leg signifies liberation, an invitation to release oneself from the illusion of the material world. His right foot crushes the dwarfish figure of Apasmara, representing ignorance and ego, the obstacles to spiritual enlightenment. His four arms are not merely decorative; each hand holds a specific object or makes a symbolic gesture. One hand holds the damaru, a drum that symbolizes the primal sound of creation, the Big Bang from which the universe emerged. Another hand holds the agni, the fire that represents destruction and transformation. The third hand is held in the abhaya mudra, a gesture of fearlessness and protection, offering solace and assurance to devotees. The final hand points downwards towards his raised foot, signifying refuge and liberation. The ring of fire, known as the Prabha Mandala, that surrounds Nataraja represents the cosmos, the continuous cycle of time and energy. The flames shooting from the perimeter illustrate the unbounded nature of Shiva's power and his role as the source of all existence. Even the flowing locks of his hair, adorned with a crescent moon and a skull, are symbolic, representing both his ascetic nature and his mastery over time and death. The crescent moon is the Somaskanda form of Shiva, where he is with his consort Uma and son Skanda (Kartikeya). The skull symbolizes his triumph over death and liberation from worldly attachments.

Panchaloha Craftsmanship

This exceptional statue has been crafted by skilled artisans using the "Madhuchista Vidhana" technique, also known as the lost-wax process. This ancient method allows for intricate detail and ensures that each piece is a unique work of art. Using this technique makes sure that no two statues are exactly the same. It is made in Swamimalai, a town renowned for its bronze casting traditions that stretch back centuries. The statue is composed of Panchaloha, a traditional five-metal alloy (typically copper, zinc, tin, gold, and silver). These metals are combined in precise proportions. The combination of these elements is believed to imbue the statue with sacred energy and spiritual power. The dimensions of the statue are 19.0 x 10.0 x 6.0 inches. This sculpture will bring a touch of divine elegance and spiritual depth to any space, serving as a constant reminder of the eternal dance of creation and destruction. It's a beautiful piece for devotional, artistic, or historical collections.