Lord Shiva, one of the Divine Trinity, the God of Dance and the celestial consort of Devi Parvati, is seldom worshipped as the Cosmic Dancer. Most often, you can see Shiva being worshipped in the form of a Linga, an oblong object, placed on a solid base of black stone. The Shiva Linga depicts the creative power of the cosmos, embodied by Shiva himself. The awe-inspiring figure of the Shiva Linga illustrates the Creator, Destroyer, Protector and Preserver, that is the all-powerful, all-knowing and ever-present Shiva.

The heavy brass sculpture you see here shows the Shiva Linga, with a representation of the Lord in deep meditation. He resides in the Linga, which is protected by powerful snakes. Shiva’s third eye remains closed, the stark, horizontal vibhuti (ash) marks on his forehead further accentuating his sharp features. Shiva’s matted hair is tied up in a knot, giving off an air of extreme austerity.