Vrishavahana Shiva : 37.5 inch Height X 16 inch Width X 12 inch Length
Parvati : 35.5 inch Height X 16 inch Width X 10.5 inch Length
A Divine Union in Bronze
Behold this magnificent pair, a testament to enduring love and cosmic harmony, crafted with meticulous devotion using the ancient Madhuchista Vidhana, or lost-wax technique. Originating from Swamimalai, a town renowned for its bronze casting traditions, these statues embody the exquisite artistry of South Indian craftsmanship. Each piece is brought to life in Panchaloha, a sacred alloy of five metals, believed to bestow blessings and auspiciousness upon its owner.
These statues feature Shiva, the Destroyer and Transformer, posed with regal grace, and his consort Parvati, the embodiment of power, motherhood, and harmony. This set represents the divine couple in a moment of serene presence, radiating peace and prosperity.
Shiva: The Lord of All
Shiva, also known as Mahadeva, the Great God, is one of the principal deities of Hinduism. He is revered as the destroyer of illusions and ignorance, paving the way for new beginnings. Shiva is often depicted in various forms, each representing a different aspect of his divine nature. As Nataraja, he is the cosmic dancer, creating and destroying the universe with every step. As Vrishavahana, as portrayed here, he is the rider of Nandi, the sacred bull, symbolizing strength, virility, and righteousness. Nandi serves as Shiva's mount and devoted attendant, embodying the virtues of devotion and unwavering faith.
Legends abound of Shiva's immense power and compassion. One such tale speaks of his drinking the poison Halahala, which emerged during the churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthan), to protect the universe from its devastating effects. He held the poison in his throat, turning it blue, earning him the name Neelakantha, the Blue-Throated One.
Parvati: Shakti Embodied
Parvati, the consort of Shiva, is the embodiment of Shakti, the divine feminine energy that permeates the universe. She is revered as the mother goddess, representing strength, love, and devotion. Parvati is known by many names, each reflecting a different aspect of her divine nature: Uma, the gentle one; Gauri, the radiant one; and Durga, the fierce protector.
The tales of Parvati's unwavering devotion to Shiva are legendary. She underwent rigorous penance to win him as her husband, demonstrating the power of dedication and perseverance. Together, Shiva and Parvati represent the perfect balance of masculine and feminine energies, the cosmic union that sustains the universe. Their relationship symbolizes the ideal of marital harmony and the strength of familial bonds.
Crafted with Devotion
The dimensions of each statue are 37.0 x 15.0 x 13.0 inches, creating a significant presence that commands attention and reverence. The Panchaloha bronze, with its warm, lustrous finish, accentuates the intricate details of the figures, from the delicate ornaments to the expressive faces. Displaying this set in your home or sacred space is an act of reverence, inviting the blessings of Shiva and Parvati into your life.