The word ‘Bhairava’ translates to ‘the one imbued with the quality of (rava) inspiring fear (bhai)’. It is the name given to the wrathful aspect of Shiva, the purely all-annihilating aspect of the trinity. While the iconography that you see in this painting does not look particularly awe-inspiring, the Bhairava aspect lies in the vahana cowering at His feet.
The shvana or dog is the divine mount of Bhairava. A miniature form of the creature stands between His feet, the language of its body conveying profound fear and submission. The Lord Bhairava stands over him, gazing straight ahead with fierce determination on His brow. He is dvibhujadhari (possessed of two arms) and a garland of lotus buds cascades down His torso.
In this painting, Lord Bhairava is flanked by two docile devis. They are looking ahead in the same direction as Him, holding lotuses up to their face to bring out the beauty of both face and flower, as they seemingly compete with each other. Overlaid with ample proportions of gold, this Tanjore painting would be a valuable addition to the home of the art-loving devotee.
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