Nepal, 16th - 17th Century, Wooden Sculpture Of Shiva In His Wrathful Form

Nepal, Kathmandu Valley
16th – 17th century

Rare representation of Shiva in his wrathful aspect, Bhairava. He is represented in a terrifying form, his grimacing face adorned with the third eye. He is depicted standing under large foliage, perched on a demon (symbol of ignorance, illusion) in the pratyalidha attitude (split to the right), the latter represented lying on his back. The divinity is wearing a high tiara, large circular ear pendants falling on his shoulders. He is adorned with a long garland made of human skulls (mundamala) and a necklace as well as bracelets on his wrists. The divinity is adorned with sixteen arms, each brandishing an ornament.

Bhairava is one of the most violent manifestations of Shiva. Created to punish Brahma, who, blinded by his arrogance, had attributed to himself the origin of the universe, Bhairava punishes the impudent by cutting off his fifth head. This act celebrates the supremacy of Shiva, thus establishing himself as a formidable defender of reality. If Bhairava is the great destroyer who makes even the god of death tremble, he devours the sins of the devotees and shows the way to Salvation.

The entire piece is of a high quality of execution, which is noteworthy for a piece of this size.

Wood with traces of polychromy / Bronze stand
Wear from use
18.5 x 5.3 cm without stand
Private collection

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