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Shiva Nataraja. Bronze. 12th century. India
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Shiva Nataraja. Bronze. 12th century. India
Shiva Nataraja. 12th century. Bronze, Chola style. Tamil Nadu, India. Rijksmuseum. Amsterdam. Holland
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1100 1200 12th Amsterdam Bronze Dancers Deity Divinity Dwarf Encircled Foot Halo Hindu Holland Ignorance Nadu Pose Rijksmuseum Shiva Symbol Tamil Chola Nataraja
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Shiva Nataraja: A 12th Century Bronze Sculpture of the Hindu God of Destruction and Renewal from Tamil Nadu, India, Housed in the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam The captivating image of Shiva Nataraja, a 12th-century bronze sculpture, showcases the Hindu god of destruction and renewal in his cosmic dance, Anandatandava. This magnificent artwork, created during the Chola dynasty in Tamil Nadu, India, is now a prized possession of the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, Holland. Shiva Nataraja is depicted as a powerful and graceful figure, encircled by a ring of fire, symbolizing the annihilation of ignorance and the creation of new life. His four arms hold various symbols, including a drum to create the rhythm of the universe and a fire in his raised hand, representing the cosmic fire that sustains the world. His left foot is raised in the dancing pose, signifying the creation of the universe from the cosmic dance. The sculpture is richly decorated, with intricate details and ornaments adorning the god's body. A halo surrounds his head, emphasizing his divine nature. The figure is also accompanied by smaller figures, including a dwarf representing ignorance, which Shiva is crushing underfoot. This bronze sculpture is a testament to the rich artistic and cultural heritage of medieval India, particularly during the Chola period. The Chola style is characterized by its graceful and fluid lines, intricate decorative details, and the use of bronze as a primary medium for sculpture. The Shiva Nataraja sculpture is a significant object in the Rijksmuseum's collection, providing a glimpse into the history and religious practices of India during the Middle Ages. It is a reminder of the enduring influence of Indian art and culture on the world, and a source of inspiration for artists and scholars alike.
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