Title
Bhikshatana Shiva with dog
Year/Period
18th century
Region
South India
Object Type
figurines
Material
bronze (metal)
Technique
casting (process), chasing (metalworking), metalworking
Dimension
Object size: L7.2 x W5.7 x H17.5 cm
Accession No.
1999-02690
Collection of
NLB Type
Bronze work
This is a four-armed bronze image of Bhairava. Bhairava is accompanied by a dog, which is the usual iconography of Shiva in his fierce form, thronging the burning grounds. Bhairava is the most terrifying aspect of Shiva. His matted hair rises up like flames while still adorned with ardhachandra, half moon. In his two right hands, he holds a trident or snake and a damaru (drum). In his left, a noose and a kapala (skull cup). This imagery highlights the ascetic aspect of Shiva's personality.
