No. 103340979

No longer available
Mukhalingam - Bronze - India - ナヤク期 18世紀
Bidding closed
11 weeks ago

Mukhalingam - Bronze - India - ナヤク期 18世紀

An 18th-century bronze mukhalingam from India, finely cast and presented on an integral stepped base raised on four short feet. The lingam is surmounted by a stylised human face (mukha), characterised by large almond-shaped eyes, a gently smiling expression, and a finely incised, curling moustache. The features are framed by a tiered headdress and flared ears, lending the visage a dignified yet approachable presence. Encircling the base of the head is a coiled serpent (nāga), its body rendered in low relief with delicately incised scales, symbolising protection and divine energy. Rising behind the head, the cobra’s hood forms a protective canopy, reinforcing the sacred association with Shiva. The square base is decorated with engraved foliate and geometric motifs, adding refinement and stability to the composition. The surface bears a warm, mellow patina with areas of wear and light verdigris consistent with age, enhancing the sculptural detail and devotional character. Mukhalingams of this type were used in Shaivite worship, combining the aniconic form of the lingam with anthropomorphic features to embody the presence of Shiva.

No. 103340979

No longer available
Mukhalingam - Bronze - India - ナヤク期 18世紀

Mukhalingam - Bronze - India - ナヤク期 18世紀

An 18th-century bronze mukhalingam from India, finely cast and presented on an integral stepped base raised on four short feet. The lingam is surmounted by a stylised human face (mukha), characterised by large almond-shaped eyes, a gently smiling expression, and a finely incised, curling moustache. The features are framed by a tiered headdress and flared ears, lending the visage a dignified yet approachable presence.

Encircling the base of the head is a coiled serpent (nāga), its body rendered in low relief with delicately incised scales, symbolising protection and divine energy. Rising behind the head, the cobra’s hood forms a protective canopy, reinforcing the sacred association with Shiva. The square base is decorated with engraved foliate and geometric motifs, adding refinement and stability to the composition.

The surface bears a warm, mellow patina with areas of wear and light verdigris consistent with age, enhancing the sculptural detail and devotional character. Mukhalingams of this type were used in Shaivite worship, combining the aniconic form of the lingam with anthropomorphic features to embody the presence of Shiva.

Bidding closed
Surya Rutten
Expert
Estimate € 300 - € 400

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