A Large Masterpiece Chola Bronze Idol of Shiva Somaskanda Murti
<p>Somsaknada murti is the depiction of Lord Shiva with his wife devi Uma and son Skanda as a child. The exquisite Somaskanda idol is created using the traditional method <a href="https://www.cottage9.com/art-technique/madhuchishtavidhana/" target="_blank">“Madhuchishtavidhana” </a>or the Lost-wax method.</p><p><br></p><p>In this bronze Somaskanda murti, Lord Shiva is shown sitting in the sukhasana pose, with his left leg folded and his right leg extended. This peaceful posture reflects calmness and meditation. Lord Shiva has four arms, his upper right hand holds an ankusha (elephant goad), in his upper left hand, he holds a deer. His lower right hand is in the position of “Pataka-hasta” (makes a gesture for blessings), while his lower left hand holds a lotus bud. Lord Shiva is shown wearing a mekhalā (waistband) around his waist, along with a lower garment secured at the waist. He has a decorative band around his thighs, and his right leg is adorned with anklets, complemented by a band around his shin.</p><p><br></p><p>To the left of Lord Shiva sits Devi Uma (Parvati), radiating peace and tranquility. She is gracefully positioned in the sukhasana pose, with her right leg folded and her left leg extended. Adorned with a karanda mukuta (crown), her expression reflects serenity. On her ears, she wears makara-kundalas (a type of earring), and around her neck is a beautiful necklace. A yajñopavita (sacred thread) flows from over her left shoulder and under her right arm.</p><p><br></p><p>Devi Uma's figure is depicted with firm breasts, symbolizing her role as the mother of the universe. Her hands are decorated with keyura (armlets) and kankana (bangles). Her right hand is in resting position, while her left hand is in the varada mudra, signifying the granting of boons.</p><p><br></p><p>Devi Parvati is adorned with exquisite ornaments, including necklaces and other gem-encrusted pieces that highlight her divine status. She wears fine attire that drapes gracefully around her legs, which are depicted as smooth and stout, resembling the trunk of a banana plant. Her feet are also adorned with anklets, adding to her regal appearance.</p><p><br></p><p>Coming to the Skanda, he is depicted as a child, wearing different ornaments. In his two hands he is holding lotus flowers.</p><p><br></p><p>This statue is a beautiful depiction of South Indian art. </p>
