Vintage Indian Brass Shiva Nataraja Sculpture Hindu Lord of Dance Altar 5.5"

Description

View Vintage Indian Brass Shiva Nataraja Sculpture Hindu Lord of Dance Altar 5.5" with current marketplace pricing, condition, product images and item details. In the classical literature of South Asian art—initially spotlighted by pioneering scholars like Ananda Coomaraswamy inThe Dance of Shiva (1918)—the iconography of the Nataraja was perfected during the Chola Dynasty (10th–12th Century) and remains one of the most complex theological symbols in world art. Antique Indian Brass Shiva Nataraja Sculpture 5.5" Hindu Lord of Dance Altar Academic Overview & Typological Research To command appreciation from discerning collectors of sacred metalwork, an item must be contextualized with rigorous art-historical accuracy. This captivating Hindu deity bronze depicts Shiva Nataraja, the Lord of the Dance, standing at a compact and sacred 5.5 inches tall. It beautifully captures the cosmic, fluid aesthetic of traditional Indian devotional art, scaled perfectly for a personal home altar ( mandir ) or an ethnographic gallery collection. Typology & Literature Analysis In the classical literature of South Asian art—initially spotlighted by pioneering scholars like Ananda Coomaraswamy in  The Dance of Shiva  (1918)—the iconography of the Nataraja was perfected during the Chola Dynasty (10th–12th Century) and remains one of the most complex theological symbols in world art. The Flaming Halo (Prabha Mandala):  The deity dances within a circular arch of flames, representing the cosmic cycle of creation, preservation, and ultimate destruction. As seen from the reverse angles in  WhatsApp Image 2026-06-23 at 16.26.51.jpg  and  WhatsApp Image 2026-06-23 at 16.26.52.jpg , this frame is seamlessly integrated into the base casting. The Altar Scale:  While grand monumental bronzes were cast for temple processions, small-scale representations measuring between 5 to 6 inches were highly sought after for private domestic shrines. This piece shows the hallmarks of an authentic regional or folk casting, showcasing organic lines and hand-finished details rather than rigid factory perfection. The Demon of Ignorance (Apasmara):  Beneath Shiva’s right foot is the crushed dwarf figure of Apasmara, the personification of spiritual ignorance, blindness, and ego, signifying the triumph of divine wisdom over worldly illusion. Iconographic Details & Symbolic Features Four Divine Arms & Mudras:  The upper right hand holds the  damaru  (hourglass drum), whose beats sound the pulse of creation. The upper left hand cradles  agni  (the flame of destruction). The lower right hand is extended in the reassuring  abhaya mudra  (fearlessness), while the lower left arm sweeps across the chest ( gaja hasta ), pointing toward the raised left foot to symbolize liberation. Facial Serenity & Posture:  The face features a calm, meditative expression, contrasting beautifully with the dynamic, high-energy movement of the  Ananda Tandava  (Dance of Bliss). The detailed hand-held views in  WhatsApp Image 2026-06-23 at 16.26.52 (2).jpg ,  WhatsApp Image 2026-06-23 at 16.26.52 (3).jpg , and  WhatsApp Image 2026-06-23 at 16.26.52 (7).jpg  highlight the hand-carved features of the crown and visage. The Lotus Pedestal:  The entire divine composition rests securely upon a flared, stylized lotus base, anchoring the spiritual energy of the sculpture. Item Specifications Culture/Region:  Hindu Art / India Subject Matter:  Shiva Nataraja (The Lord of the Cosmic Dance) Material:  Cast Brass / Bronze Alloy Technique:  Lost-Wax Casting ( Cire Perdue ) — Hand-finished, individual strike. Height:  5.5 inches Width:  5.0 inches Depth:  2.0 inches Weight Profile:  Solid, substantial small-scale metalwork with a stable base. Condition Report Excellent vintage altar condition. This piece features a gorgeous, warm golden-brass patina with deep, authentic oxidation in the recessed areas of the casting, confirming its age and ritual handling. The structure is completely solid and free of any cracks, repairs, or structural flaws. Category: Antiques › Asian Antiques › India.

Primary Material

Bronze

Type

Ink Pot

Color

Dark Brass Tone

Original/Reproduction

Antique Original

Region of Origin

India

Age

1850-1899

Country of Origin

India