Statue, Nandi - 17-18th c. - 10 cm - Bronze
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Selected by Sarah Le Helley
Studied Asian art and art market management; researched art in Taipei; worked in auctions.
Estimate € 150 - € 200
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Description from the seller
Nandi, the sacred ox of Shiva
India, 17th-18th century
Bronze
10 cm height x 7.5 cm x 5.5 cm
Important devotional representation of Nandi, the sacred bull and vahana (mount) of the god Shiva, depicted lying on a high molded rectangular plinth. The animal adopts the traditional posture, limbs folded under the body and the head proudly upright, in an attitude that is both hieratic and attentive.
The powerful body is richly adorned. The neck bears several collars and strands of pendants, while an imposing ornamental harness develops along the back and flanks in stylized reliefs. The strongly marked dorsal hump, characteristic of the Indian zebu, accentuates the compact silhouette of the animal. The deliberately robust modelling, coupled with generous decoration deeply integrated into the mass of bronze, gives the sculpture a particularly archaic presence.
The face displays a remarkable feature with the muzzle and horns deeply polished and largely worn away by long devotional use. This differential wear, concentrated on the parts most accessible and traditionally touched or oiled during puja, contrasts with the better preservation of the body ornaments. It presumably testifies to repeated devotional handling over an extended period. The surface also retains a rich irregular patina, mixing brown, black and golden tones, as well as traces of old materials or ritual deposits.
In Shaivite tradition, Nandi is not only Shiva's mount; he is also his guardian and supreme devotee. Placed in temples facing the sanctum and the lingam, representations of Nandi serve as symbolic intermediaries between the faithful and the deity. The strong devotional wear on this example thus forms an essential part of its material history and endows it with a particularly evocative devotional character.
Good overall condition for its age. Heavily worn in places.
Provenance: Kanaka The Collection, Portugal
Sent with UPS and insured.
Seller's Story
Kanaka The Collection is a Portugal-based web gallery specialising in Asian art, with a particular focus on the arts of Southeast Asia.
With over 20 years of experience and passion for Asian art, we offer a carefully curated selection of sculptures, ceramics and works of art from across Asia, chosen for their artistic quality, authenticity and historical interest.
Every piece is professionally packed, and we ship worldwide to collectors and institutions.
We remain personally available to collectors before and after each acquisition.
Translated by Google TranslateNandi, the sacred ox of Shiva
India, 17th-18th century
Bronze
10 cm height x 7.5 cm x 5.5 cm
Important devotional representation of Nandi, the sacred bull and vahana (mount) of the god Shiva, depicted lying on a high molded rectangular plinth. The animal adopts the traditional posture, limbs folded under the body and the head proudly upright, in an attitude that is both hieratic and attentive.
The powerful body is richly adorned. The neck bears several collars and strands of pendants, while an imposing ornamental harness develops along the back and flanks in stylized reliefs. The strongly marked dorsal hump, characteristic of the Indian zebu, accentuates the compact silhouette of the animal. The deliberately robust modelling, coupled with generous decoration deeply integrated into the mass of bronze, gives the sculpture a particularly archaic presence.
The face displays a remarkable feature with the muzzle and horns deeply polished and largely worn away by long devotional use. This differential wear, concentrated on the parts most accessible and traditionally touched or oiled during puja, contrasts with the better preservation of the body ornaments. It presumably testifies to repeated devotional handling over an extended period. The surface also retains a rich irregular patina, mixing brown, black and golden tones, as well as traces of old materials or ritual deposits.
In Shaivite tradition, Nandi is not only Shiva's mount; he is also his guardian and supreme devotee. Placed in temples facing the sanctum and the lingam, representations of Nandi serve as symbolic intermediaries between the faithful and the deity. The strong devotional wear on this example thus forms an essential part of its material history and endows it with a particularly evocative devotional character.
Good overall condition for its age. Heavily worn in places.
Provenance: Kanaka The Collection, Portugal
Sent with UPS and insured.
Seller's Story
Kanaka The Collection is a Portugal-based web gallery specialising in Asian art, with a particular focus on the arts of Southeast Asia.
With over 20 years of experience and passion for Asian art, we offer a carefully curated selection of sculptures, ceramics and works of art from across Asia, chosen for their artistic quality, authenticity and historical interest.
Every piece is professionally packed, and we ship worldwide to collectors and institutions.
We remain personally available to collectors before and after each acquisition.
Translated by Google TranslateDetails
Era
1400-1900
Over 200 years old
Yes
Country of origin
India
Material
Bronze
Title of artwork
Nandi - 17-18th c.
Dynastic style/period
17th-18th c.
Signature
Not signed
Provenance
Private collection
Condition
Good condition
Sold with stand
No
Height
10 cm
Width
7.5 cm
Depth
5.5 cm
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