Sino-Indian Bronze Shiva Nataraja Statue – Cosmic Dance – Early 20th Century – Lot 478
A bronze Shiva Nataraja statue representing the cosmic dance of creation and destruction. The figure is surrounded by a flaming aureole and stands on a lotus base above the dwarf Apasmara. Cast using the traditional lost-wax technique, with visible hand-finished details and natural surface patina.
Dimensions: H 57 cm × W 41 cm
Weight: 10.2 kg
This object has been examined based on construction, material, and surface characteristics. The sculpture is cast in a copper-based alloy using the traditional lost-wax method. The interior of the base reveals an irregular and untreated structure with natural oxidation, including darker tonal variation and mineral deposits, consistent with pre-industrial or early industrial casting techniques.
The exterior surface shows a stable patina with visible wear on protruding elements and deeper oxidation in recessed areas. These characteristics indicate natural aging rather than modern artificial finishing. Hand-finished details are visible in the facial features, ornamentation, and structural elements of the aureole.
The overall composition and casting complexity, including the integrated ring and figure, further support traditional production methods rather than modern mass production. Based on these combined observations, the statue can be placed in the late 19th to early 20th century, within an Indian workshop context.
Estimated value: €900 – €1,600
Dimensions: H 57 cm × W 41 cm
Weight: 10.2 kg
Sino-Indian Bronze Shiva Nataraja Statue – Cosmic Dance – Early 20th Century – Lot 478
Description
This bronze sculpture depicts Shiva as Nataraja, the Lord of the Cosmic Dance, one of the most iconic forms within Hindu iconography. Shiva is shown dancing within a ring of flames, symbolizing the eternal cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction. Beneath his foot lies Apasmara, the dwarf representing ignorance, which is being subdued through divine knowledge.
The statue is cast in a copper-based alloy using the traditional lost-wax technique. This is clearly visible in the interior structure of the base, which shows an irregular, untreated surface consistent with hand-cast production. The composition, including the dynamic pose, multiple arms, and detailed aureole, reflects a well-balanced and technically complex casting.
Surface wear is present on the raised areas, while deeper sections retain darker tones and subtle green oxidation. This variation indicates natural aging over time rather than artificial treatment. Fine details such as the facial features, hair arrangement, and ornamental elements have been refined by hand after casting.
The style is consistent with Indian workshop production inspired by earlier South Indian traditions. While not a highly elaborate or temple-scale piece, it maintains strong visual presence and authenticity. Objects of this type were often used in private devotional settings or as symbolic representations of Shiva’s cosmic role.
Dating to the late 19th to early 20th century, this piece represents a continuation of traditional casting practices into a later period. Its size, weight, and complexity make it a substantial and decorative object with both cultural and aesthetic value.
Dimensions: H 57 cm × W 41 cm
Weight: 10.2 kg
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Sino-Indian Bronze Shiva Nataraja Statue – Cosmic Dance – Early 20th Century – Lot 478
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