Artwork Page for Shiva under trees

Details / Information for Shiva under trees

Shiva under trees

c. 1780

Northern India, Pahari kingdoms

Medium
Gum tempera on paper
Measurements
Overall: 18.2 x 14 cm (7 3/16 x 5 1/2 in.)
Credit Line
Mr. and Mrs. William H. Marlatt Fund 1960.48
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
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Description

Cut from a larger composition, this fragment shows the god Shiva who has come down to earth. He seems alluringly approachable despite his white body, the snake around his neck, his third eye, trident weapon, animal-skin garment, and the crescent moon at his brow. Set off against a flat red background, he stands under two shade trees that make his manifestation on earth believable. One tree is entwined around the other, metaphorically suggesting the physical love Shiva seems to wistfully desire.
A vertically oriented gum tempera painting depicts Shiva against a solid red background. Facing our right with downcast eyes, the light-skinned figure wears a spotted animal skin and a snake necklace while holding a tall trident. To our left, two thick, intertwined gray tree trunks with green foliage stand beside a yellow border. The painting features torn, irregular edges.

Shiva under trees

c. 1780

Northern India, Pahari kingdoms

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