Shiva Who Bears the Crescent Moon, mid-11^th century
South Indian, Tamil Nadu, Chola dynasty
Bronze
Founders Society Purchase, Acquisitions Fund
80.38

This small sculpture of the Hindu god Shiva would have been paired with a smaller image of Parvati, his consort. Here Shiva is portrayed as the pillar, animator, and light of the universe. He is associated with a host of identifying emblems, the most important of which is the auspicious crescent moon over his right ear. The moon is the symbol of cyclical time and the vessel of soma, the drink of immortality and the water of life. Although Shiva's stance is static and erect, there is a youthful liveliness in the form and features, consistent with his association with the principle of life itself, its breath and fire.