Property From a New York Collection
A Red Sandstone Figure Depicting Uma-Maheshvara, Central India, 10th/11th Century
Auction Closed
September 20, 05:33 PM GMT
Estimate
15,000 - 20,000 USD
Lot Details
Description
Property From a New York Collection
A Red Sandstone Figure Depicting Uma-Maheshvara
Central India, 10th/11th Century
Height 28 in. (71.1 cm)
the divine couple seated in lalitasana on a pierced base, Shiva's upper hand holding a lotus and trishula, his tall jatamukuta raising up with twisted locks of hair, Uma with one arm drap🅠ed around Shiva's shoulders wearing strands of necklaces, backed by spiked nimbus and surrouꦆnded by attendant figures
Sotheby Parke-Bernet, New York, 19th - 21st November 1979, lot 105.
Uma-Maheshvara represents the sacred embrace, alingana, of the Lord Shiva, the Great Ascetic, joined with the divine beauty, the Goddess Uma. Shiva sits here in the posture of royal ease, holding the trident with Uma resting on his lap as they affectionately gaze at each other with a reticulated nimbus behind. They are surrounded by their family, with Ganesha visible to the left and their principle vehicles, the bull and lion below. As the divine couple, their union is metaphysical and meant to act as the gateway for the devotee to enter their sacred realm. Compare the popular theme with another Uma-Maheshvara, also of the 10th/11th century showing a similar nimbus style in the Minneapolis Institute of Art (acc. no. 97.36.).
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