Terms and Conditions
The artist, title and date of the work must be listed anywhere the image is reproduced:
Indian
Svayambhu linga
basalt
28.7 × 15.8 cm diameter (overall)
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Purchased, 1998
Photo: National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
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About this work
Shiva is one of the principal deities of the Hindu pantheon. He represents both destruction and creation, demonstrating the cyclical nature of the Hindu conception of the cosmos. In art, Shiva is represented in many forms. He is often shown seated beside his consort Parvati, as a yogi or ascetic, or in symbolic, abstract form as a linga. The linga is a sacred object of worship symbolising Shiva’s fertility and generative power and is often accompanied by a thaara pathra vessel that continuously drips holy water onto the lingam as an offering. This basalt linga has been naturally shaped by moving water in central India’s sacred Narmada River. Its red mineral striation embodies the concept of shakti, or female energy, which is required to activate Shiva’s creative power.
Artwork Details
Place/s of Execution
Narmada River, Central India, India
Accession Number
1998.12
Department
Asian Art
This digital record has been made available on NGV Collection Online through the generous support of The Gordon Darling Foundation
Physical description
Svayambhu ('self born' or 'self created') lingam. Ovoid form. Slightly mottled grey/brown stone with deep red horizontal banding (banding to the top of the stone when displayed). Polished.