Shiva Statue - Antique Javanese Style Bronze Dancing Shiva statue as Lord Nataraja - 35cm(14") Tall

Measures (Height) 35cm/14"

An antique Javanese‑style dancing Shiva as Lord Nataraja, rendered in classic 13th‑century Majapahit style. Here Shiva appears as the divine dancer and Lord of the dramatic arts, perfectly balanced within the circular aureole that frames his rhythmic movement.

In accordance with Natya Shastra principles, the figure captures the poised dynamism of the cosmic dance, where creation, preservation and dissolution unfold in harmonious flow.

One of the right hands is shown in abhaya, the gesture of protection and reassurance, with a snake coiled elegantly around the wrist, while the rear right hand holds a damaru or hand‑drum, the instrument whose beat signifies the pulse of creation. The remaining hands extend gracefully, echoing the sweeping curves of his body. Fingers, ankles, neck, face, head, ear lobes and dress are richly adorned, the jewellery and finely worked textiles emphasising Shiva’s royal and divine status.

Shiva is backed by an aureole with beaded border and flaming rim, topped by a decorative finial, symbolising his radiance and cosmic energy.

He stands upon a rectangular double‑lotus pedestal, lifting his left leg in the familiar Nataraja pose and trampling the dwarf‑demon Apasmara (also known as Muyalaka), who represents ignorance and spiritual forgetfulness. The lotus beneath him signifies purity, compassion and the joy bestowed on all beings, its emergence from muddy waters mirroring the journey from worldly entanglement to spiritual clarity.

The energetic movement of Shiva’s dance is expressed with particular refinement in this Majapahit interpretation: he wears a simple robe with a sash swirling at his side and carefully modelled ornaments including crown and earrings, while his hair is arranged in a tripartite chignon decorated with a cockade. Discreet adornments—a necklace, diamond‑shaped earrings, the sacred Yajnopavita thread and single bangles on each wrist—offer a balanced interplay of simplicity and richness.

As the destroyer within the Hindu Trimurti, Shiva is revered as limitless, transcendent and unchanging, yet also as patron god of yoga, meditation and the arts. The Trilochana, his third eye on the forehead, marks him as the Three‑Eyed Lord: an eye of wisdom beyond “Maya,” the illusion and duality of everyday life, and the source of his untamed spiritual energy.

This traditional yet striking sculpture distils these layered meanings into a single, compelling form, making it an ideal centrepiece for a home, workspace or sacred environment—a piece that brings movement, protection and a uniquely powerful presence to any setting.

SATISFACTION GUARANTEE - We have been offering SE Asian Art for many years and are proud of the reputation we have developed for fair and honest listings. However, if for any reason, whatsoever, you are unhappy with your purchase please just let us know and we will provide a full refund. We want you to be 100% happy with your purchase.