Shiva Statue - Antique Javanese Style Bronze Dancing Shiva Statue as Lord Nataraja - 58cm(23") Tall

Shiva Statue - Antique Javanese Style Bronze Dancing Shiva Statue as Lord Nataraja - 58cm(23") Tall

Measures (Height) 58cm/23"

An antique Javanese-style bronze depicting Shiva as Lord Nataraja, the Divine Dancer, rendered in the refined aesthetic of 13th century Majapahit art. This dynamic sculpture captures both the grace and cosmic शक्ति (shakti) of Shiva in motion, embodying the eternal rhythm of creation, preservation, and destruction.

Here, Shiva is portrayed in his role as Nataraja, Lord of the Dance and patron of the dramatic arts. His posture reflects the principles of the Natya Shastra, combining perfect balance with expressive movement. In his upper left hand, he holds Agni (fire), symbolising destruction and transformation, while another hand holds the damaru, the sacred drum whose sound marks the pulse of creation. One of his right hands is raised in the abhaya mudra, offering protection and reassurance, with a serpent coiled gracefully around the wrist. Another hand is held in a teaching gesture, emphasising divine knowledge and guidance.

Shiva dances within a flaming aureole, edged with beaded detail and crowned with a decorative finial, representing the cosmos and his divine radiance. Beneath his feet lies the dwarf demon Apasmara (Muyalaka), the embodiment of ignorance, whom Shiva subdues as he lifts his leg in liberation and transcendence. The double lotus pedestal beneath him symbolises purity, spiritual awakening, and the unfolding of enlightenment.

The figure is richly adorned yet retains the elegant restraint characteristic of Majapahit craftsmanship. His jewellery includes a crown, earrings, necklace, and the sacred yajnopavita (Brahmanical thread), while his hair is arranged in a tripartite chignon, accented with subtle ornamentation. The detailing across the body—from the expressive hands to the finely modelled features—demonstrates both artistry and devotion.

The trilochana, or third eye, is visible upon his forehead, representing higher wisdom and the destruction of illusion (maya). As part of the Hindu Trimurti alongside Brahma and Vishnu, Shiva embodies the transformative force of the universe—both fearsome and benevolent, ascetic and dynamic.

This striking and spiritually charged sculpture brings movement, symbolism, and timeless elegance into any setting. Whether placed in a home, office, or sacred space, it serves as a powerful reminder of balance, energy, and the eternal dance of existence.

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