Shiva Statue - Antique Khmer Style SE Asia Wood Bas Relief Nandi & Shiva Statue - 105cm/42"

Antique Khmer Style SE Asia Mounted Wood Bas Relief Nandi and Shiva Statue - 105cm/42"

Measures – (Height) 105cm/42”

This openwork finial depicts an antique Khmer style mounted wood Shiva riding his mount Nandi from Cambodia.

This magnificent sculptures represents Shiva in the classic 12th century Angkor Wat style. Shiva is regarded as limitless, transcendent, unchanging and formless. He is the patron god of yoga, meditation and art. Nandi is the traditional Bull mount of Shiva.

It's great size is typical of the sculpture carved for Suryavarman II's capital city of Angkor Wat. Shiva is clothed in a sampot can kpin and his twisted hair is arranged in horizontal rows to form a cylindrical jatamukuta that is surrounded by his diadem in typical Angkor Wat style.

The eyebrows, depicted by a continuous ridge that runs across the forehead, a beard and a moustache define his face. The inner rims of the ears are scalloped, replete with pendulous jewellery. Shiva holds a lotus bud in his right hand. In his left hand he holds a Trident or Trishula, a divine symbol and principle iconography of the Hindu religion.

The three points of the trishula have various meanings and significance, and, common to the Hindu religion, have many stories behind them. They are commonly said to represent various trinities—creation, maintenance, and destruction; past, present, and future; body, mind and atman; dharma or dhamma (law and order), bliss/mutual enjoyment and emanation/created bodies; compassion, joy and love; spiritual, psychic and relative; happiness, comfort and boredom; pride, repute and egotism; clarity, knowledge and wisdom; heaven, mind and earth; soul, fire and earth; soul, passion and embodied-soul; logic, passion and faith; prayer, manifestation and sublime.

The bull, Nandi, is shown with a jewelled necklace. The details of Nandi are intricately carved with a jewellers precision. Shiva is surrounded by a flaming aureole, symbolising his divinity. He is mounted to a wood base.

In the rich tapestry of Hindu mythology, few figures carry the depth of symbolism and spiritual significance as Nandi, the divine bull. As the sacred mount of Lord Shiva, Nandi occupies a revered place in Hindu culture and philosophy.

Nandi's most prominent role is that of the vahana, or vehicle, of Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. In this capacity, Nandi is not just a physical mount but a symbol of unwavering devotion and loyalty. The inseparable bond between Lord Shiva and Nandi signifies the importance of humility, obedience, and dedication on the spiritual path.

Depicted as a powerful and muscular bull, Nandi embodies strength and virility. The bull is a symbol of fertility and abundance in Hindu culture, representing the life-sustaining forces of nature. Nandi's robust form serves as a reminder of the inherent power within all living beings and the vital energy that sustains the universe.

In conclusion, Nandi is far more than a mythical creature or a decorative element in Hindu iconography. As the loyal steed of Lord Shiva, Nandi symbolizes profound spiritual truths, embodying qualities of devotion, strength, and discipline.

Whether gracing the entrance of a temple or adorning the altar in a devotee's home, the significance of Nandi extends beyond religious boundaries, touching the hearts and minds of those who seek inspiration on their spiritual journey.

The divine presence of Nandi serves as a timeless reminder of the enduring values that enrich the human experience.

Given the nature of the piece a wooden crate will be prepared to ensure safe shipping. The cost of which is included in our price. 

The carving is beautiful as you can see in the fine details of the faces. Each detail is rendered perfectly. This traditional in appearance piece is sure to add a unique touch to any room of your home or workplace.