7" Lod Narasimha Seated with Devi Lakshmi | Sandalwood Carved Statue

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The Protector and the Consort

This meticulously carved sandalwood statue depicts Lord Narasimha, an avatar of Vishnu, seated with Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity and beauty. The carving captures the raw power and protective nature of Narasimha, while simultaneously portraying Lakshmi's serene and nurturing presence. Their combined presence signifies the harmonious balance of strength and grace, protection and abundance. The intricate detail showcases the artisan's skill in capturing the divine couple's essence, making it a truly remarkable piece.

The Legend of Narasimha

The story of Narasimha is one of the most compelling in Hindu mythology. He incarnated to protect his devotee, Prahlada, from his tyrannical father, Hiranyakashipu. Hiranyakashipu, granted a boon that made him virtually invincible, terrorized the universe and forbade anyone from worshipping Vishnu. His son, Prahlada, remained steadfast in his devotion. Enraged, Hiranyakashipu attempted to kill Prahlada repeatedly. Finally, he challenged Prahlada, asking if Vishnu was present in a pillar, upon Prahlada answering in the affirmative, Hiranyakashipu shattered the pillar. From it emerged Narasimha, neither man nor beast, neither born of woman nor created by any being, and slew Hiranyakashipu at dusk, neither inside nor outside his palace, thus circumventing the boon.

The Significance of Sandalwood

Sandalwood has been revered in India for centuries, not only for its fragrant aroma but also for its perceived spiritual properties. It is believed to have purifying and calming effects and is often used in religious ceremonies and meditation practices. The smooth texture and fine grain of sandalwood make it an ideal medium for intricate carvings, allowing for the detailed portrayal of deities and sacred symbols. A sandalwood carving is both an aesthetic object and a potent symbol of faith.