Karnataka (South India)
copper alloy
A beautifully caparisoned standing Nandi which is profusely engraved with geometric and floral patterning. The Nandi wears a hamsa (bird) saddle blanket which is surmounted by a bowl-like structure which would have held an incense burner or an oil reservoir. The bridled animal, wears a double necklace with attached bells, the largest being in the midline.
Nandi or nandin means rejoicing, gladdening. It is the name of Shiva’s conveyance (vahana) the white bull. Nandi was probably a folk deity later incorporated into the Brahmanic lore. Nandi symbolises on the one hand moral and religious duty (dharma), and on the other, virility, fertility and strength. Apart from being Shiva’s vehicle, nandi in his form as nandikeshvara, depicted as a human with a bulls head, is believed to be one of the great masters of music and dancing. In southern India his recumbent image is placed either opposite the main sanctuary or in the hall leading to it, facing the linga.
Size (cms): 17.3(H) x 14.3(W) x 9.3(D)
Size (inches): 7(H) x 5.5(W) x 3.5(D)
