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Ardhanarishvara

$1289.25
$1719
25% off
Includes any tariffs and taxes
Kadappa stone, found in the recesses of Southern India, is known for its smooth texture, the black equivalent of marble. Artisans from the region of Mahabalipuram have, generations ago, seen in this stone the ingredients for works of art and set about sculpting divinity itself. This Ardhanarishvara, the somatic confluence of Shiva and Parvati, befits the weight and skill of such a medium of art.
Specifications
ZDA70
Katappa Stone Statue (Crafted in Mahabalipuram)
Height: 20.2 inch
Width: 9.3 inch
Depth: 4.7 inch
Weight 11 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.

The Divine Union: Ardhanarishvara

This exquisite statue depicts Ardhanarishvara, a powerful and symbolic representation of the divine union of Shiva and Parvati. In Hindu mythology, Ardhanarishvara embodies the synthesis of masculine and feminine energies, the ultimate fusion of the Purusha (consciousness) and Prakriti (nature), or spirit and matter. This form illustrates that without the feminine, the masculine is incomplete, and vice versa, highlighting the fundamental interdependence of all creation. The divine being stands majestically, a testament to the skill of the artisans of Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its ancient rock-cut temples and sculptures. Carved from katappa stone, the statue possesses a deep, resonant black hue that accentuates the intricate details and sharp contrasts achieved through masterful craftsmanship. The stone itself, sourced from the region, carries with it the echoes of centuries of artistic tradition.

Symbolism and Iconography

Ardhanarishvara is depicted with multiple arms, each holding significant iconography. On the right, Shiva's side, a trident (Trishula) is held aloft, representing his power over the three aspects of time: past, present, and future, and his ability to destroy ignorance and illusion. A flame or torch, symbolizing divine knowledge and destruction of evil, is also present on this side. The coiled serpent, a common attribute of Shiva, is visible, signifying his control over primal energies and his transcendence of mortality. On the left, Parvati's side, the representation is equally potent. The soft, feminine curves contrast with the masculine austerity of the right side, yet both are perfectly integrated. The adornments and posture reflect her grace and nurturing aspect. The statue’s composition, with the divine being standing beside the sacred bull Nandi, Shiva’s mount, further enriches its devotional appeal. Nandi, a symbol of dharma and strength, remains steadfast, a silent witness to the cosmic union.

A Masterpiece from Mahabalipuram

The artisans of Mahabalipuram have brought Ardhanarishvara to life with remarkable precision. The smooth, polished finish of the katappa stone allows the detailed carvings to stand out, creating a mesmerizing play of light and shadow. The traditional attire, the delicate jewelry, and the serene yet powerful expressions on both faces are rendered with an artistry that speaks of deep reverence and profound understanding of the divine form. This statue is not merely an object of art but a conduit for spiritual contemplation, an embodiment of cosmic balance and the interconnectedness of all existence. It serves as a timeless reminder of the fundamental principle that unity is achieved through the harmonious integration of complementary forces.
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