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Nataraja

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$394

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Specifications

	ZEM651
	Wood Carving From South India
	Height: 17.5 inch
	Width: 1.7 inch
	Depth: 8.5 inch
	Weight 2 kg

Delivery and Return Policies

	Usually ships in 35 days
	Returns and Exchanges accepted within 7 days
	Free Delivery

Easy Returns

Return within 7 days of
order delivery.See T&Cs

Fully Insured

All orders are fully insured
to ensure peace of mind.

100% Handmade

All products are
MADE IN INDIA.

The Cosmic Dancer: A Timeless Embodiment of Divine Energy

This exquisite wood carving from South India captures the dynamic and multifaceted form of Nataraja, the Lord of the Dance. In Hindu mythology, Shiva as Nataraja is not merely a deity but a cosmic force, embodying the eternal cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction. The intricate details of this carving showcase the profound symbolism inherent in this powerful representation.

The Dance of Creation and Destruction

Nataraja's dance, known as the *Ananda Tandava* or the Dance of Bliss, is a powerful visual metaphor for the universe's constant flux. The figure is depicted in a vigorous pose, balancing on a dwarf-like figure, Apasmara, who represents ignorance and ego. This signifies Shiva's triumph over darkness and illusion. The multi-armed posture conveys his boundless energy and his ability to perform myriad actions simultaneously. Each hand holds a significant object or gesture, all contributing to the narrative of cosmic balance and divine activity. The carving masterfully translates these symbolic elements into tangible artistry, drawing the viewer into the essence of Shiva's celestial performance.

Symbolism Carved in Wood

The uplifted foot represents liberation from the cycle of birth and death, the ultimate goal of spiritual seeking. The other foot firmly planted on Apasmara signifies the subjugation of ignorance. The flame in one hand represents destruction, while the drum in another symbolizes creation and the rhythm of the cosmos. The outstretched hand, often in the *abhaya mudra* (fear-not gesture), offers protection and solace. The serene yet fierce expression on Nataraja's face reflects his mastery over all aspects of existence. The crescent moon in his hair symbolizes his control over time and the cyclical nature of life, while the serpent coiled around his neck represents kundalini energy, the divine force within. This carving brings these potent symbols to life, rendered with exceptional skill and reverence.

Artistry Rooted in Tradition

This piece is a testament to the rich heritage of South Indian wood carving, a tradition passed down through generations. The dense, dark wood is expertly shaped and polished, highlighting the fine details of the ornamentation, the flowing locks of hair, and the powerful musculature of the divine dancer. The deep carving creates a dramatic play of light and shadow, further enhancing the dynamism of the pose. Owning this sculpture is not just acquiring a beautiful object; it is bringing into your home a profound representation of cosmic order, spiritual power, and artistic mastery, a tangible connection to ancient wisdom and enduring devotion. It serves as a constant reminder of the universe's perpetual dance of transformation.

Sculpting Serenity: Unveiling the Art of Crafting Wood Statues

Wood has been a preferred material for sculptures and statues since ancient times. It is easy to work with than most metals and stones and therefore requires less effort to shape it into any desired shape or form. The texture of the wood gives an element of realism to the sculpture. The selection of an appropriate wood type is necessary for carving. Woods that are too resinous or coniferous are not considered good for carving as their fiber is very soft and thus lacks strength. On the other hand, wood such as Mahogany, Oakwood, Walnut wood, Weet cherry wood, etc., are preferred by sculptors because their fiber is harder. A wood sculptor uses various tools such as a pointed chisel in one hand and a mallet in another to bring the wood to the desired measurement and to make intricate details on it. A carving knife is used to cut and smooth the wood. Other tools such as the gouge, V-tool, and coping saw also serve as important tools in wood carving. Although the wood carving technique is not as complex and tough as stone carving or metal sculpting, nonetheless, a wood carver requires a high level of skills and expertise to create a stunning sculpture.

1. Selecting the right wood

The process of wood carving begins with selecting a chunk of wood that is required according to the type and shape of the statue to be created by the sculptor. Both hardwoods and softwoods are used for making artistic pieces, however, hardwoods are preferred more than softer woods because of their durability and longevity. But if heavy detailing is to be done on the statue, wood with fine grain would be needed as it would be difficult to work with hardwood.

2. Shaping the wood

Once the wood type is selected, the wood carver begins the general shaping process using gouges of various sizes. A gouge is a tool having a curved cutting edge which is useful in removing large unwanted portions of wood easily without splitting the wood. The sculptor always carves the wood across the grain of the wood and not against it.

3. Adding detailing

When a refined shape of the statue is obtained, it is time for making details on the statue using different tools. This is achieved by using tools such as a veiner to make and a V-tool to create decorative and sharp cuts.

4. Surface finishing

Once finer details have been added, the sculptor is ready to smoothen the surface and give it a perfect finish. Tools such as rasps and rifflers are used to get a smooth surface. The finer polishing is obtained by rubbing the surface with sandpaper. If a textured surface is required, this step is skipped. Finally, to protect the statue from excessive dirt accumulation, the sculptor applies natural oils such as walnut or linseed oil all over it. This also brings a natural sheen to the statue.

How to care for Wood Statues?

Wood is extensively used in sculpting especially in countries like China, Germany, and Japan. One feature that makes the wood extremely suitable for making statues and sculptures is that it is light and can take very fine detail. It is easier for artists to work with wood than with other materials such as metal or stone. Both hardwoods, as well as softwood, are used for making sculptures. Wood is mainly used for indoor sculptures because it is not as durable as stone. Changes in weather cause wooden sculptures to split or be attacked by insects or fungus. The principal woods for making sculptures and statues are cedar, pine, walnut, oak, and mahogany. The most common technique that sculptors use to make sculptures out of wood is carving with a chisel and a mallet. Since wooden statues are prone to damage, fire, and rot, they require proper care and maintenance.

Wood tends to expand and contract even after it has been processed, thus it is always recommended to keep the wooden sculptures in rooms with little humidity. Excess moisture can harm your masterpiece.

Periodical dusting of the finished piece is necessary to maintain its beauty as dust accumulation on the surface takes away the shine of the sculpture. You can use a clean and soft cloth or a hairbrush for this purpose.

You must avoid applying any chemical-based solutions that may damage the wood from the inside. Instead, you can apply lemon oil or coconut oil using a cotton rag to the sculpture to bring out its natural shine. Lemon oil also helps to clean any stains on the sculpture.

Applying a layer of beeswax protects the wood from sun damage and hides even the smallest imperfections on the wood.

It is extremely important to preserve and protect wooden sculptures with proper care. A little carelessness and negligence can lead to their decay, resulting in losing all their beauty and strength. Therefore, a regular clean-up of the sculptures is a must to prolong their age and to maintain their shine and luster.

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