(11) Shiva as Lord of Dance (Nataraja)

*Contextual Analysis*

*Contextual Analysis*

*Visual Analysis*

*Visual Analysis*

Chola Dynasty

- Date of origin unclear - Powerful —> spread to Cambodia, Southeast Asia

Function of this aork

- Portable - Hindu rituals where statue becomes the god (would be fed, bathed, dressed)

Iconography of the 4 arms

1) Holds drum = creation + destruction; universe created to drum rhythm 2) Holds flame = samsara (cycle of life, death, rebirth); destruction 3) Points to upraised foot = refuge + enlightenment 4) Abhaya mudra = come forward with no fear

What surrounds Shiva

Light of glory

What surrounds Shiva

Light of glory/mandorla of flame = fire meant to protect earth

What was another common Shiva depiction

Linga (looks like anvil)

What did Chola Dynasty make and when

Made solid bronze figures in 10th century; also decorated temples

Is the sculpture solid or hollow

Solid

How is hair shown

The hair is spinning and spreads out

What does Shiva stand on

With one leg, he stands on Apasmara, the dwarf of ignorance