In this sculpture, the god Shiva and his consort Parvati are united in a single image known as Ardhanareshwara, the physical representation of the Indian concept of the nonduality of the divine principle or supreme being. Shiva occupies the dominant right side, and Parvati is the subsidiary left. The deities are distinguished by subtle physical differences, coiffure, clothing, and ornaments. The straighter line of Shiva's body contrasts with Parvati's breasts, constricted waist, swelling hip, and smaller face. His dhoti is short, and her garment is approximately ankle length; each is tied differently.
Ardhanareshwara is the supreme deity who unites the dualistic forces of the universe, the undifferentiated whole who both precedes and governs the cosmos. Even so, the Sanskrit poets have playfully developed the theme of frustrated love for this form of Shiva combined with his consort. The poet Bhagiratha writes:
I'll grant you the golden goddess: He has the joy Of embracing you forever Without pause, since he carries your supple body Mixed into his. Still, inside of him That three-eyed god Is ever burning with sorrow, For he will never see the gentle Light, Alive with loving, in your eyes.
The following splendid verse, attributed to Mandana, in which Ganesha, the elder son of Shiva and Parvati, answers his younger brother's queries, is also of interest in understanding the concept of Ardhanareshwara.
"When father and mother became a single body, what happened, elder brother, to the other halves of each?' Victory to Ganesa, who explains to the younger prince, "The one on earth was born as everyman, the other everywoman."
This description by Nitin Kumar, Executive Editor, Exotic India.
How to keep a Brass statue well-maintained?
Brass statues are known and appreciated for their exquisite beauty and luster. The brilliant bright gold appearance of Brass makes it appropriate for casting aesthetic statues and sculptures. Brass is a metal alloy composed mainly of copper and zinc. This chemical composition makes brass a highly durable and corrosion-resistant material. Due to these properties, Brass statues and sculptures can be kept both indoors as well as outdoors. They also last for many decades without losing all their natural shine.
Brass statues can withstand even harsh weather conditions very well due to their corrosion-resistance properties. However, maintaining the luster and natural beauty of brass statues is essential if you want to prolong their life and appearance.
In case you have a colored brass statue, you may apply mustard oil using a soft brush or clean cloth on the brass portion while for the colored portion of the statue, you may use coconut oil with a cotton cloth.
Brass idols of Hindu Gods and Goddesses are especially known for their intricate and detailed work of art. Nepalese sculptures are famous for small brass idols portraying Buddhist deities. These sculptures are beautified with gold gilding and inlay of precious or semi-precious stones. Religious brass statues can be kept at home altars. You can keep a decorative brass statue in your garden or roof to embellish the area and fill it with divinity.
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