Parvati

Description

This sculpture depicts the Puranic deity Parvati, who is interpreted varyingly. Seen as the consort of Shiva, she is also viewed as the complete incarnation of Adi Parashakti, or as the gentler aspect of the great goddess Mahadevi. In relation to Shiva, she is his two-armed second consort- being reincarnated from his first one, Sati. Additionally, she is also viewed as a maternal figure to the gods Ganesha and Skanda. Yet, when depicted individually, her self changes drastically- she is then shown as a four-armed or eight-armed goddess, astride her vahana (usually a tiger or a lion). This depiction shows her in her four-armed self, holding a number of ayudhas, of which the trident (trisula) is most prominent. One of her arms is also in the varadamudra, while she is shown standing upon a lotus pedestal. Her clothing is carved impeccably, showing even minute folds, while her jewellery is shown with incredible detail, covering much of her body. Her ornate earrings and headdress is also backed by a radiating prabhamandala- signifying her divinity. She is surrounded by a number of smaller figures- ranging from attendants to devotees to musicians. One also notes a number of animals- from two resting lions at her feet, to another couple flanking her to the sides in rampant posture, stood above elephant heads. This carving exhibits considerable expertise and craftsmanship.