Ardhanarisvara 37

This set, depicting Siva as a peasant and Parvati as the Devi is a detailed copy of the pieces on display in the Thanjavur Art Gallery.  The originals are considered superb representations of Siva from the early Cholas in the year 1011 CE. This set is another one of Metal Crafts masterpieces that can bring Chola History and understated elegance into your home without supporting the illegal antique trade. The word Devar refers to the fact that Siva is represented in human form with just two arms.  This depiction is the only Chola statue in which Siva is shown in human form. It is also unique in the display of the hair shaped into the form of a turban that is most obvious in the front view. As stated above the two arms indicate that this form of Siva is the human guise of a peasant. The right hand is positioned to rest on the head of his sacred bull (Rishabha/Nandi), which was not found with the originals, while the left hand is in katyavalampita-hasta.  With unrivaled grace and dignity Siva, as a peasant stands firm on his left leg, the right leg crossed with toes resting on the ground.  The Devi, Parvati, is in every way a fit companion for the aesthetic excellence of Siva.  She stands in tribhanga leaning towards Siva with her right hand in kataka and the left hand hanging like a cows tail, govala.  Her legs mimic the posture of Siva with a lesser bend of the knee on the right leg.  This posture is what differentiates this Parvati form from other standing depictions such as Sivakami.  Certainly, any Chola bronze admirer can see the uniqueness of this pair from any other depiction of the heavenly couple and would want them to grace their home.