Artisanal Brass Sculpture - Intricate Lost-Wax Cast Figurine of Deity Shiva, Rich in Symbolic Detail - Height: 115 mm - Width: 70 mm- 578 g - (1)

Impressive Brass Sculpture of Shiva, Lost-Wax Casting, India — This specimen does not represent a mineral in the classical geological sense, but rather an artistic metal fusion, made of brass, an alloy primarily composed of copper and zinc. The object in question is a sculpture that falls into the category of metalwork, even though it is presented within a context of collecting natural and artistic objects. The technique used is lost-wax casting, an ancient and highly specialized method that allows for the creation of detailed works with great precision, typically used for the realization of statues and ritual objects since the Bronze Age. The sculpture depicts the figure of the god Shiva in his ascetic form, seated in a meditative posture (padmasana or ardha padmasana), a symbol of profound contemplation and mastery over inner forces. The coloration is that characteristic of polished brass, with golden hues that reflect light, highlighting the craftsmanship and volumes. The surface presents a uniform finish, with minimal signs attesting to authenticity and the manual casting process, giving the object a distinctive character compared with industrial productions. The iconography is rich in symbolism: the raised right hand in Abhaya Mudra indicates protection and absence of fear, while the left hand holds a stylized object, presumably a damaru or a trishula, symbols associated with Shiva. The hair is styled in a jatamukuta, a high ascetic hairstyle, and the crescent moon on the forehead (Chandra) is a distinctive attribute symbolizing control of time and cosmic energies. The third eye, though not prominent, is implied in the deity’s depiction. At the base of the figure, the presence of a stylized feline face alludes to the tiger skin (vyaghrasana) on which Shiva is traditionally depicted while meditating, symbolizing victory over primal instincts and mastery over the wild. This detail adds another layer of cultural and religious meaning, rooted in Hindu and tantric tradition, where Shiva is also Pashupati, the Lord of Animals. The condition of conservation of the object is excellent, consistent with a metal alloy artifact that has preserved its structural and aesthetic characteristics intact. The glossy surface, free of significant oxidation or damage, makes it a piece ready for display. The solidity and compactness of brass guarantee considerable resistance to the wear of time, making it a durable investment for the collector. This specimen represents a piece of notable interest for collectors of ethnic art, religious sculptures, or metal artifacts. The combination of an ancient artisanal technique, a complex sacred iconography, and a specific geographic provenance (India) increases its value. Similar objects, made with the same care and attention to symbolic details, are sought after for their ability to evoke deep spiritual traditions and for their intrinsic sculptural beauty, standing out for their uniqueness and their profound cultural significance.