Shiva and Parvati

The great Hindu god Shiva and his wife Parvati can be considered an exemplar of male-female relationships in the Hindu worldview. Their affection is evident in this sculpture, with Shiva’s hand sliding up Parvati’s torso to caress her breast as she relaxes into him. Parvati sits on Shiva’s thigh, her left hand gently resting on her knee and her right hand positioned on Shiva’s leg. Their grace is emphasized by the long and slender nature of their bodies and limbs, accentuated by Shiva’s high hair knot.

This composition exhibits a number of features that are characteristic of Nepalese metal images, including the use of stone insets and the figures’ gentle smiles, as well as details that are found particularly in early Nepalese art, such as the circular lotus base and the pointed ends of the figures’ scarves and clothing, thickened through numerous overlaps. This final feature can be seen here between Shiva’s legs. The figures’ worn foreheads and remnants of vermillion coloring are the result of their use in daily ritual worship.