Important Notice

Tamil Nadu
20th century
Brass
Height: 11.5 in (29 cm)
Width: 4.25 in (10.6 cm)
Depth: 7 in (18 cm)

PROVENANCE
Private Collection, Mumbai

This sculpture is attached to an acrylic base measuring 1 x 10 x 5 in (2.5 x 25.5 x 13 cm)

Nandi or Nandikeshvara is a bull vahana (vehicle) of Shiva. Temples dedicated to Shiva usually have a Nandi seated at the entrance. Passing temple visitors touch or apply ash on its head to receive blessings.

This brass Nandi is made in hollow casting form, a very unique and difficult technique in which the metal is poured in the mould and allowed to cool until a shell is formed. The remaining liquid metal is poured out to leave a hollow. This figure was used in processions with Shiva and Parvati placed on its back. Notice the beautifully engraved jewellery motifs on the crest and the back of the figure. The head of the Nandi displays signs of it being used by devotees as they passed by.


Tamil Nadu
20th century
Brass
Height: 11.5 in (29 cm)
Width: 4.25 in (10.6 cm)
Depth: 7 in (18 cm)

PROVENANCE
Private Collection, Mumbai

This sculpture is attached to an acrylic base measuring 1 x 10 x 5 in (2.5 x 25.5 x 13 cm)

Nandi or Nandikeshvara is a bull vahana (vehicle) of Shiva. Temples dedicated to Shiva usually have a Nandi seated at the entrance. Passing temple visitors touch or apply ash on its head to receive blessings.

This brass Nandi is made in hollow casting form, a very unique and difficult technique in which the metal is poured in the mould and allowed to cool until a shell is formed. The remaining liquid metal is poured out to leave a hollow. This figure was used in processions with Shiva and Parvati placed on its back. Notice the beautifully engraved jewellery motifs on the crest and the back of the figure. The head of the Nandi displays signs of it being used by devotees as they passed by.