A swaying sense of motion, a heightened awareness of deviroopa. This Swamimalai bronze conveys a universe of sensuousness and divinity. Handpicked from the recesses of the South, the home of the Indian bronze tradition, this sculpture captures as much of Devi Uma's beauty and presence as is humanely possible. She is tall and lissome, the characteristic tribhang (the spinal column of Her body breaks - 'bhang' - at three - 'tri' - places) of Her stance exuding elegance and stateliness. She is wife to none other than Shiva, and Her gaze onto the world is laced with fearlessness and wisdom. Note how well the sharp lines of Her shringar go with Her superbly defined proportions.
The iconography of Shiva's wife is replete in this independent Devi Uma composition. The crown that towers above Her head has been sculpted with superb detail, and adds to Her gorgeous stature. Her countenance and the features that grace it are full and lotus-like, a signature of contemporary Chola-style bronzes. Long, vine-like kundalas and a bunch of necklaces complement the dhoti of thin silk that reveals rather than conceals Her yogic musculature. The pedestal is an important aspect of Indian religious sculptures. This one comprises of multiple tiers of lotuses of downward ascending surface area. Indeed this work of superfine art is fit to be consecrated and housed in a temple in your space.
An Embodiment of Divine Grace and Artistic Mastery
This exquisite bronze statue captures the divine essence of Goddess Uma in the captivating "Tribhanga" pose. The Tribhanga, a Sanskrit word meaning "bent in three places," describes a graceful, serpentine posture where the body is bent at the neck, waist, and knee. This pose is not merely an aesthetic choice; it is deeply rooted in Indian classical art and dance traditions, symbolizing fluidity, sensuality, and the dynamic interplay of cosmic energies. In Hindu iconography, this pose is often associated with goddesses like Parvati (Uma), Radha, and other celestial maidens, conveying a sense of divine elegance and captivating charm.Crafted with Timeless Tradition
Hailing from the renowned artistic hub of Swamimalai, this Panchaloha bronze statue is a testament to the enduring legacy of traditional South Indian metal casting. The "Panchaloha," meaning "five metals," is an auspicious alloy traditionally used for making idols of deities. This sacred combination imbues the statue with not only physical durability but also a spiritual significance, believed to harness divine vibrations. The patina, a beautiful verdigris patina, lends an aura of antiquity and depth, hinting at the countless ages this divine form has witnessed. The meticulous detailing, from the intricate jewelry adorning her form to the delicate rendering of her expressive face, speaks volumes of the artisan's skill and devotion. Each curve and contour has been sculpted with precision, bringing to life a deity of immense power and serene beauty.A Vision of Celestial Beauty
The figure of Uma stands tall, her form sculpted with a masterful understanding of anatomy and grace. Her serene expression, with eyes softly closed, suggests a state of profound meditation or divine awareness. The ornamentation is exquisite, with a multi-tiered crown adorning her head, intricate necklaces, and elaborate armlets and bracelets. Her dhoti, rendered with fine pleats and decorative borders, clings elegantly to her form, accentuating the sensual curves of her body. The signature Tribhanga pose, with one leg gently bent and the torso gracefully swayed, creates a sense of movement and life, as if she is about to break into a divine dance. This posture is often seen as a representation of the goddess's playful nature, her allure, and her connection to the rhythm of the universe. The delicate gesture of her raised hand, perhaps in a blessing or a gesture of invitation, adds to the captivating aura of this magnificent artwork. This statue is more than just a representation of a deity; it is an invitation to connect with the divine feminine, a source of strength, beauty, and cosmic balance.
