Height:18 inches Base Width:16 inches Base Depth:7 inches Weight: 43 pounds Materials: Polished Bronze Casting:
Lost Wax Method
Defining
Features of the Somaskanda statue: Shiva is seated next to his wife Parvati
in a relaxed posture. They are both seated on a raised base. Shiva holds an
axe and a deer. Shiva's other two hands are held in front of him in the abhaya
mudra position or "fear not" hand position. Parvati is in a similar position to
the form she takes as Bogashakti, "Boga" meaning pleasure and "Shakti" meaning
energy. This form embodies Devi's sexual energy. She also holds a flower.
Between the heavenly couple stands their infant son, Murugan or Skanda. He
holds two flowers in his hands. The stylish, heart shaped arch frames the piece
beautifully. Mahakala or "great time" is captured on the top of the flaming
arch.
Somaskanda sculptures over the centuries have many different variations. Some
have Shiva and Parvati seated directly on the base. Others, like this statue,
have them raised up on a base over the main base. Skanda is showed both seated
and standing. In this version, along with his mother, he holds flowers.
The Somaskanda Legend: Legend has it that Vishnu, desirous of progeny,
worshipped Shiva at Tiruvarur and that Shiva blessed him with a male child Kama.
Parvati (Shakti), who was enraged by the fact that Vishnu had not included her
in his worship of Shiva, inflicted a curse upon him that Vishnu's child would be
burnt to death by Shiva. Upon realization of the curse, an aggrieved Vishnu
created a composite image featuring Shiva, Uma and Skanda (Somaskanda - symbolic
of fertility) and offered worship to it. Parvati alleviated the curse placed on
him stating that despite being burnt to death, Kama would live on to create the
forces of attraction between the male and the female that would ensure the
continuation of the human race. It is to be noted that Somaskanda represents
the processional image of Shiva in most Saivite temples.
Care:The piece can be used both indoors and outdoors. Dust the piece regularly. If you would like the piece to shine use a cotton cloth with some coconut oil or other natural oil to wipe down the statue.
Shipping:Shipping is automatically calculated by UPS for shipping within the US and Canada. This piece should be shipped within 24 hours of the order with the exception of the weekend. If you are in Canada please select "UPS Standard to Canada" for the shipping option. If you are an international customer please select "TNT International Shipping" during checkout. The shipping will come out as $0 and will be added to your order. Please call 203-629-0902 or email us info@bronzecreative.com for a shipping quote.
Please call Bronze Creative @ 866-568-8712, International 203-629-0902 or email us info@bronzecreative.com
