Bronze Shiva Mukhalinga From Andhra Pradesh - 18th Century

This excellent 18^th century bronze head of Shiva is a mukhalinga, literally translating to 'lingam with a face'. Lingams are phallic eggs and the non-representational form of Shiva, one of the three most prominent gods of Hinduism. Shiva is The Destroyer who demolishes in order for the world to be created anew. Originally mukhalingas were carved lingam, however in the 18^th century, they came to be covers for lingam stones, believed to preserve the sacred vibrations and shield them when not in use. It is likely, given the size that this was used as the former. 

A copper sheen can clearly be seen on this piece which is often found on older, higher quality pieces. This mukhalinga is covered in a rich patina from years of daily use which we have preserved. There is an old cutout in the reverse of his head. It has been cast using the lost wax technique, also known as cire perdue. The figure is sculpted from beeswax in this process and then coated with clay to make the mould. Once dried and fired, molten bronze is poured into the clay mould. Once cooled, the clay is broken away, exposing the final figure where finer details are then carved into the bronze. 

From India

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