Shiva. India, ca. 1800

Shiva. India, ca. 1800.
Carved stone sculpture.
In good condition for a fragmentary sculpture, missing its arms and showing signs of erosion consistent with its age. The reverse side features rough carving, possibly related to a former architectural setting.
Measurements: 57 x 25 x 12 cm.

This sculpture stands out for the richness of its ornamentation and the delicacy of its carving, particularly evident in the rendering of the face and the decorative motifs on the clothing. The figure, depicted in full face, has a serene expression, with almond-shaped eyes, slightly smiling lips, and a small triangular mark on the forehead, which can be interpreted as Shiva’s third eye. She wears a tall, cylindrical headdress, profusely decorated with geometric and plant motifs, accompanied by large earrings, layered necklaces, and other carefully carved ornaments.

The body, with stylized proportions and a narrow waist, is partially covered by elaborately pleated clothing, embellished with belts and bands featuring geometric and beaded motifs. The hallmarks of the polished surfaces of the figure’s anatomy and the meticulous ornamental work give the figure a striking sculptural presence.

The work is linked to the tradition of Hindu religious sculpture, in which anthropomorphic representations of deities play a central role in worship. Shiva, one of the principal deities of Hinduism, embodies the principles of destruction, transformation, and regeneration of the universe. His iconography frequently combines the solemnity of divine representation with elements alluding to his ascetic nature and spiritual power.