Shiva Nataraja – South India (Tamil Nadu), ca. 1750–1850
Rare 18th–19th century bronze Shiva Nataraja from South India (Tamil Nadu / Karnataka). Hollow-cast with a traditional ritual core, showing deep natural oxidation and a powerful, well-modelled aureole and lotus pedestal.
Dimensions: H 53 × W 44 cm, 11.4 kg.
TAX3 Report – 1stbuddha
This South Indian Shiva Nataraja (Tamil Nadu / Karnataka) was examined using museum-grade analytical methods, including microscopic surface inspection, UV fluorescence analysis and internal cavity review. The sculpture is hollow-cast with a traditional ritual core, still visible inside the open base, and presents natural layered oxidation, mineral accretions and stable copper-alloy patina. No indications of modern coating, artificial ageing or restoration were observed. The casting texture, interior wall structure and ritual filler are consistent with pre-industrial South Indian lost-wax production.
Material: bronze (copper alloy), hollow-cast
Technique: traditional lost-wax casting with ritual core
Height: 53 cm
Width: 44 cm
Weight: approx. 11.4 kg
Period: 18th–19th century
Region: South India (Tamil Nadu / Karnataka)
Condition: authentic aged surface, ritual filler intact, no modern restoration
1stbuddha retail valuation: €4,500 – €7,500
Shiva Nataraja – South India (Tamil Nadu), ca. 1750–1850
Description
This substantial bronze sculpture portrays Shiva as Nataraja, the cosmic dancer who embodies both destruction and renewal. The figure stands within a dynamic flaming aureole (prabhamandala) characteristic of South Indian bronze casting. Measuring 53 cm in height and 44 cm in width, and weighing 11.4 kg, it is a powerful and traditionally crafted Nataraja from Tamil Nadu or Karnataka, produced between the mid-18th and early 19th century.
The bronze is hollow-cast with an open base, and traces of original ritual filler remain visible inside the cavity. Embedded fibrous material and compacted residue indicate the presence of an authentic consecrated core, consistent with prana-pratishtha ritual practice. Microscopic inspection shows natural oxidation, layered surface development, and mineral deposits that confirm genuine age and long-period devotional use. Under UV light, the surface reveals uneven granular fluorescence corresponding to older copper-alloy corrosion and accumulated deposits rather than modern coatings.
Shiva’s four arms carry the classical attributes: the damaru (drum of creation), agni (fire of dissolution), the abhaya gesture of protection, and the pointing hand indicating the raised foot, symbolizing liberation. He subdues Apasmara, the dwarf of ignorance, while his flowing locks and ornate crown radiate divine energy. The surrounding aureole, shaped with thick flame motifs, is crowned by a kirtimukha mask, a traditional protective emblem.
Stylistic Context
Although the iconography originates in Tamil traditions, the robust forms, thick aureole, and heavy casting indicate production in South India rather than the Himalayan regions. This type of Nataraja was made for temple use, household shrines, and regional patronage during the 18th and 19th centuries, following long-standing lost-wax casting methods.
Details
Origin: South India (Tamil Nadu / Karnataka)
Material: Bronze, hollow-cast with ritual core
Height: 53 cm
Width: 44 cm
Weight: approx. 11.4 kg
Condition: Excellent preservation with authentic ritual filler and stable aged patina
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Shiva Nataraja – South India (Tamil Nadu), ca. 1750–1850
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