12 cm Nataraj Shiva

15cm Nataraj Shiva in a brass finish. Nataraj Shiva or Dancing Shiva is a very popular image. The symbolism of the dance, called Tandava, can be interpreted in many ways. It may show Shiva as the moving force of the universe and his five acts of creation, preservation, destruction, embodiment and release. The last can be linked to the fire of the cremation ground, perhaps symbolised by the ring of flames around the dancer. The dwarf is said to be the embodiment of ignorance, the destruction of which is pre-requisite to enlightenment, true wisdom and release. 
 
ch 2012