Shiva | The Great Eastern Home

January 21, 2015

18th century Sculpture of Lord Shiva and Parvati

Wood has been an excellent medium for artists in India right from the start. Throughout the history of Indian art, wood carvings seems to be the most luxurious kind of art. Well-known example of wooden sculptures can be that of the Hindu temples in ancient period which were marvelously decorated with doors, ceilings and various fittings carved in teak and other kinds of wood. These carvings were marked with typical patterns of extreme richness and minute elaboration. In India, idols of god, goddesses and demigods are the most preferred themes through this presentation.

Seen here is the sculpture of the four armed Lord Shiva with his wife, Parvati, seated on the Nandi. The background is decorated with a round shaped prabhavali. It is an 18^th century sculpture in wood, sculpted in South Indian style. The southern parts of India are known for their wooden sculptures and toys as they display intricate carvings with meticulous finishing. You can always reach us at www.thegreateasternhome.com to know about pieces that intrigue you as that is something that cannot be subdued!

January 14, 2015

Sculpture of ‘Natraja’

A sculpture aims to invoke a lot more than just appreciation for its shape. It is one of the most difficult forms of expressive art and India holds an elaborate history of possessing pieces from various times, places and styles. Apart from these elements, each sculpture has its own distinct persona and most importantly, the artist’s own form of expression! The Great Eastern Home displays exclusive pieces of art and artifacts that are centuries old. The sculpture pictured here is of the Hindu god Shiva in the form of Natraja. Natraja in Sanskrit means ‘the King of dance’. It is an 18^th century sculpture in wood from Rajasthan. You will find this piece arranged among the other sculptures at The Great Eastern Home. You can also see other pieces from our collection at www.thegreateasternhome.com

September 16, 2014

Lord Khandoba’s sculpture

Lord Khandoba is a Hindu deity who is worshipped in the region of the Indian Deccan. This statue features him with four arms, each wielding a weapon. He is seated on a horse standing statant on a rectangular pedestal. This miniature idol, now at The Great Eastern Home, is made out of bronze and belongs to the late 19^th century.

The worship of Khandoba developed during the 9^th and 10^th centuries. In this period, this deity evolved from a folk deity into a composite god possessing the attributes of Shiva, Bhairava, Surya and Kartikeya. He is depicted either in the form of a Lingam or as an image riding on a bull or a horse. The foremost centre of Khandoba worship is Jejuri in Maharashtra. At Jejuri, legendary tales about him are narrated in folk songs which revolve around his many marriages and his victory over the Mani-malla demons.

Come come visit us at The Great Eastern Home at Byculla and take a good look at Lord Khandoba, along with our other miniature collections, all showcased within a glass box.