148 - DANCING SHIVA NATARAJA INDIA 18TH TO 19TH CENTURY

DANCING SHIVA NATARAJA INDIA 18TH TO 19TH CENTURY Dimensions: Height 22,5 cm Wide 19 cm Depth 6 cm Weight: 1076 grams A complex cast-bronze image of Shiva in an energetic dancing posture, the multi-armed deity framed by an openwork aureole and surrounded by a dense ensemble of subsidiary figures and animals. The many arms radiate around the torso holding attributes and forming gestures, while one leg is lifted across the body and the composition rises from a broad decorated pedestal. The repeated curves of limbs, halo and attendants create an unusually animated silhouette. Shiva's cosmic dance expresses the perpetual cycle of creation and destruction, concealment and liberation. Although this bronze elaborates the familiar Nataraja theme with a particularly crowded retinue and numerous arms, the central idea remains one of controlled divine energy: the deity's calm face anchors a composition otherwise filled with movement. The casting rewards close inspection, especially in the small figures, animals and open spaces around the aureole.