Ardhanarishvara, an idealized representation of the essence of the universe, is the culmination of the union of the supreme male and female forces, Purusha and Prakriti.
Using typical Chola-era imagery, this bronze statue of Ardhanarishvara shows Shiva on the right, his leg stable on the lotus pedestal, dressed with a tiger-hide dhoti, waist belt, and Yajnopavita.
The towering crown of Ardhanarishvara is worthy of a closer appreciation, with Shiva’s tresses tied in a Jatamukuta and Parvati’s hair styled in an elaborate, layered hairdo, adorned with Makrara emblem ornament- the mythical animal that represents transformation (beginning and ending of Universe), that this potent roopa stands for.
In an emphasized Tribhanga position, Parvati, his Vamangi (who resides in Vama or left, a name for wife), has a slim yet flexible figure. The mental image appears delicate because of the exquisite detailing of Parvati's silken dhoti and the genuine portrayal of the softness of each fold, the charming hint of fleshiness visible on the body of Ardhanarishvara, and the poised yet animate aura of the bronze.
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