SOUTH INDIA, TAMILNADU, 11TH/12TH CENTURY

Shiva's dualistic nature, at once the creator and destroyer, is decorously evinced in the bronze sculpture of the Cholas. The Nataraja represents the quintessential image of that period and this is a very elegantly modeled example. As the 'Master Dancer' he is the family deity of the Imperial Cholas. As both an ascetic and a princely figure, his matted locks are juxtaposed with ornate jewels and a youthful, muscular physique. In his upper right hand, he holds the drum as the symbol of sound and creation - the Big Bang - whose cosmic vibrations pulse through his wavy hair, while in his right hand he holds a flame, setting the world alight. Shiva's lower right hand, with outward facing palm, is in the fear-abating gesture, flanked by a Naga. The lower left hand which elegantly crosses his body draws the eye downward to the direction of his upraised right foot and serves as a symbol of release as he gyrates along both the vertical and horizontal axis of space. He stands on the prostrated dwarf Apasmarapurusha, demon of ignorance and indolence. The base is pierced to help attach the piece during procession.
The bill of sale from William H. Wolff states Tanjore district as the place of origin.