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Ardhanarishvara in Tribhanga

$684.75
$913
25% off
Includes any tariffs and taxes
Specifications
ZEN288
Stone Statue From South India (Mahabalipuram)
Height: 11.5 inch
Width: 2.6 inch
Depth: 7.7 inch
Weight 3.70 kg
Delivery and Return Policies
Usually ships in 20 days
Returns and Exchanges accepted within 7 days
Free Delivery
Easy Returns
Easy Returns
Return within 7 days of
order delivery.See T&Cs
Fully Insured
Fully Insured
All orders are fully insured
to ensure peace of mind.
100% Handmade
100% Handmade
All products are
MADE IN INDIA.

Embodiment of Divine Union: Ardhanarishvara

This exquisite stone sculpture captures the profound and mystical form of Ardhanarishvara, a composite deity of Shiva and his consort Parvati. Revered as the Supreme Being, Ardhanarishvara represents the fusion of masculine and feminine energies, the fundamental principles of creation, preservation, and destruction that permeate the universe. The deity's androgynous nature symbolizes the indivisibility and interdependence of opposites, a cornerstone of many philosophical traditions. This particular representation, executed in the graceful Tribhanga pose, imbues the divine figure with a sense of dynamic movement and exquisite beauty. The subtle curvature of the body, a hallmark of this artistic stance, suggests a fluid dance of cosmic forces.

A Synthesis of Power and Grace

Originating from the rich artistic heritage of South India, specifically from Mahabalipuram, renowned for its ancient rock-cut temples and masterful craftsmanship, this statue is a testament to enduring artistry. The stone medium itself, often sourced from local quarries, lends a sense of timelessness and gravitas to the deity. The intricate details, from the divine adornments to the serene yet powerful expressions, speak volumes about the skill of the artisans who brought this divine form to life. The right half of the sculpture typically depicts Shiva, often shown with a trident (trishul) and a serpent coiled around his arm, symbolizing his asceticism and dominion over primal forces. The left half embodies Parvati, radiating grace and maternal tenderness, often adorned with jewelry and holding a lotus or other auspicious symbols.

Mythological Resonance and Cultural Significance

The concept of Ardhanarishvara finds its roots in ancient Hindu scriptures, notably the Puranas, where it is explained as a manifestation of Shiva's desire to understand the female principle (Prakriti) and to experience the completeness of creation. It is believed that when Brahma, the creator god, was struggling to populate the universe, Shiva, at his request, manifested as Ardhanarishvara to grant him the boon of progeny. This divine union signifies that creation is impossible without the combination of both Shiva (consciousness, the masculine principle) and Parvati (energy, the feminine principle). The Tribhanga pose, often associated with divine dancers and deities like Krishna and Nataraja, adds an extra layer of spiritual significance, suggesting the cosmic dance of existence and the cyclical nature of time. This sculpture serves as a powerful reminder of the inherent balance and interconnectedness that underlies all existence, an invitation to contemplate the harmonious interplay of all dualities.
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