Shiva as Lord of Dance (Nataraja)
Period: Chola period (880–1279)
Date: ca. 11th century
Culture: Indian (Tamil Nadu)
Medium: Copper alloy
Dimensions: H. 26 7/8 in. (68.3 cm);
Diam. 22 1/4 in. (56.5 cm)
Classification: Sculpture
Credit Line: Gift of R. H. Ellsworth
Ltd., in honor of Susan Dillon, 1987
Accession Number: 1987.80.1
Description
As a symbol, Shiva Nataraja is a brilliant
invention. It combines in a single image Shiva's roles as creator, preserver,
and destroyer of the universe and conveys the Indian conception of the
never-ending cycle of time. Although it appeared in sculpture as early as the
fifth century, its present, world-famous form evolved under the rule of the
Cholas. Shiva's dance is set within a flaming halo. The god holds in his upper
right hand the damaru (hand drum that made the first sounds of creation). His
upper left hand holds agni (the fire that will destroy the universe). With his
lower right hand, he makes abhayamudra (the gesture that allays fear). The
dwarflike figure being trampled by his right foot represents apasmara purusha
(illusion, which leads mankind astray). Shiva's front left hand, pointing to
his raised left foot, signifies refuge for the troubled soul. The energy of his
dance makes his hair fly to the sides. The symbols imply that, through belief
in Shiva, his devotees can achieve salvation.
