Shiva : 4.5 inch Height X 2 inch Width X 2 inch Length
Lakshmi : 3.8 inch Height X 1.5 inch Width X 1.5 inch Length
Divine Companions
These intricately crafted bronze figures present Shiva and Parvati, the divine couple whose relationship represents the ideal of marital harmony, devotion, and mutual respect. Shiva, the ascetic yogi and destroyer of illusion, is often depicted in a state of meditative bliss, while Parvati embodies divine energy, love, and strength. Together, they symbolize the union of consciousness and power, the masculine and feminine principles that are essential for cosmic balance.
Shiva is portrayed in a dynamic pose, suggesting the eternal dance of creation and destruction that he embodies. His features are serene yet powerful, reflecting his role as the master of yoga and meditation. Parvati stands with grace and poise, her gentle expression radiating compassion and nurturing energy. Her presence signifies the feminine power that complements and completes the masculine essence of Shiva.
Lost-Wax Casting and Swamimalai Artistry
Crafted using the ancient Madhuchista Vidhana, or lost-wax casting technique, these bronze statues represent a time-honored tradition passed down through generations of skilled artisans in Swamimalai, a town renowned for its bronze sculptures. This meticulous process begins with a detailed wax model, which is then encased in clay. The wax is melted away, leaving a mold into which molten Panchaloha bronze—a sacred alloy of five metals—is poured. Once cooled, the clay mold is broken, revealing the final bronze sculpture. Each piece is then painstakingly refined and finished, ensuring that every detail reflects the artist's skill and devotion.
The use of Panchaloha bestows a unique spiritual significance to these statues. The five metals are traditionally believed to represent the five elements of nature – earth, water, fire, air, and space – embodying the interconnectedness of the cosmos. These statues are not merely decorative objects; they are conduits for divine energy, inviting serenity and blessings into the spaces they occupy.
Dimensions
The statues measure approximately 4.5 inches in height, 2.0 inches in width, and 2.0 inches in depth.