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Nritya Ardhanarishvara

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Name: Nritya Ardhanarishvara
Brand: Exotic India
SKU: ZEN268
Price: 915.00 USD
Availability: InStock

$858

$1144

25% off

Includes any tariffs and taxes

The tradition of stone-carving in Mahabalipuram traces its origins in the Pallava period. It is under the patronage of these art-loving rulers that intergenerational practice of this art flourished. Its results can be seen to this day in the ruins that dot its landscape and within the studios run by families devoted to their craft. It is from one such studio that this dancing Ardhanarishvara has been curated.

Fashioned from karuppu kal (black granite), the process involved is time-intensive and speaks volumes about the skill and temperament of the sculptors. Multiple rounds of stenciling and chiselling call for the attention of up to 50 craftsmen on a single work of art such as this one. Note the graciousness of the curves at each juncture of the deity’s roopa, the dynamism of the silhouette - these are the hallmarks of the region’s devotional handiwork.

The trishool in His hand contrasts sharply with the sweet-sounding conch in Hers; the nakedness of His raised leg, with the pleats of Her dhoti; the musculature of His torso, with the sharp curve of Her waist; the fierce-hooded snake, with the shringar of Her kundalas. A single lotus-engraved halo behind the head matches the double-tiered lotus pedestal on which the tandava is taking place.

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Specifications

	ZEN268
	Stone Statue From South India (Mahabalipuram)
	Height: 14.5 inch
	Width: 4 inch
	Depth: 7.3 inch
	Weight 5.40 kg

Delivery and Return Policies

	Usually ships in 20 days
	Returns and Exchanges accepted within 7 days
	Free Delivery

Easy Returns

Return within 7 days of
order delivery.See T&Cs

Fully Insured

All orders are fully insured
to ensure peace of mind.

100% Handmade

All products are
MADE IN INDIA.

Embodying Divine Union: The Ardhanarishvara Form

This exquisite stone statue from South India captures the profound and mystical representation of Ardhanarishvara, a revered deity embodying the synthesis of male and female energies. In Hindu mythology, Ardhanarishvara is a composite form of Lord Shiva and his consort, Goddess Parvati, symbolizing the primordial union from which creation emerges. This form signifies that the universe is a dance of masculine and feminine principles, inseparable and interdependent. The very name "Ardhanarishvara" translates to "the Lord who is half woman," encapsulating its iconic dual nature. This depiction is more than just an artistic representation; it is a philosophical statement about the fundamental balance and interconnectedness of all existence, a concept deeply ingrained in Indian spiritual traditions.

A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship from Mahabalipuram

Carved with exceptional skill from dark, rich stone, this statue is a testament to the enduring legacy of South Indian artistry, specifically from the legendary shores of Mahabalipuram. This ancient port city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has been a cradle of monolithic rock-cut architecture and sculpture for centuries. The artisans of Mahabalipuram are renowned for their meticulous attention to detail and their ability to imbue stone with life and emotion. The intricate detailing on this Ardhanarishvara sculpture – from the delicate rendering of drapery to the serene expressions on its faces – showcases the mastery passed down through generations. The contrasting chisel work, which creates highlights and shadows, further accentuates the divine form, making it a truly captivating piece.

The Symbolism of Ardhanarishvara

This representation of Ardhanarishvara is replete with symbolic meaning. The fusion of Shiva and Parvati signifies the totality of the cosmos, encompassing both the destructive and creative forces, the passive and active energies. The right half, typically representing Shiva, often holds a trident (Trishula), symbolizing the three gunas (Sattva, Rajas, Tamas) and his power over time. The left half, representing Parvati, might hold a lotus or a mirror, signifying beauty, purity, and illusion. In this particular sculpture, the divine dualism is evident in the contrasting ornamentation and posture. The calm, centered stance reflects the cosmic harmony that Ardhanarishvara embodies, a divine balance that pervades all of creation. It is a powerful reminder that true completeness comes from embracing and integrating all aspects of existence, transcending perceived dualities.

An Aura of Spirituality and Grace

Bringing this Ardhanarishvara statue into your home or sacred space is to invite an aura of profound spirituality, balance, and grace. It serves as a constant reminder of the divine unity that underpins reality and the inherent beauty found in complementarity. The meticulous craftsmanship and the profound symbolism make this a collector's item and a deeply meaningful devotional piece. Its presence can inspire introspection, promote harmony within relationships, and foster a deeper understanding of the universal forces at play. This sculpture is not merely an object of art but a conduit to contemplating the infinite, the beautiful, and the sacred.

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