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Pair of Shiva and Parvati Heads
Western India
late 19th/early 20th century
Height: each 11 cm
This startling pair of deity heads are unusual in that they are painted, in striking black, white, saffron-orange, and red paints, but also because Shiva has been
painted as Ardhanarisvara, the androgynous union of Shiva and Parvati: Shiva’s left side is painted in the female form with face make-up and a red and yellow
bindhi, and the right side in the male form with half a moustache.
Both have pierced ears to allow silver or gold earrings to be hung from the images. Such heads were worshipped in their own right as part of household altars,
in temples, and as processional deities.
Inventory no.: 120
This Item is available - Ask about this item
Pair of Shiva and Parvati Heads
Western India
late 19th/early 20th century
Height: each 11 cm
This startling pair of deity heads are unusual in that they are painted, in striking black, white, saffron-orange, and red paints, but also because Shiva has been
painted as Ardhanarisvara, the androgynous union of Shiva and Parvati: Shiva’s left side is painted in the female form with face make-up and a red and yellow
bindhi, and the right side in the male form with half a moustache.
Both have pierced ears to allow silver or gold earrings to be hung from the images. Such heads were worshipped in their own right as part of household altars,
in temples, and as processional deities.
Inventory no.: 120
This Item is available - Ask about this item
