{"product_id":"antiek-bronzen-shiva-nataraja-nepal-36cm","title":"Antique Bronze Shiva Nataraja Nepal 36cm lost-wax casting","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis rare bronze altar sculpture (36 cm) depicts Shiva Nataraja, the cosmic dancer, crafted within the renowned Nepalese casting tradition (Newari craftsmanship). Unlike the more common South Indian variants, this object displays the specific esoteric and iconographic characteristics from the Himalayan region through the traditional lost-wax method (\u003cem\u003ecire perdue\u003c\/em\u003e). The sculpture is in untouched collector's condition and combines a profound philosophy of life with rare, material-technical authenticity features.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Philosophical \u0026amp; Nepalese Significance: Why this sculpture is essential\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe acquisition of this specific Nepalese Shiva Nataraja introduces a deeper, esoteric layer of one of the most revered symbols in Eastern art history:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eThe Skull Symbolism (Kapala):\u003c\/strong\u003e Centrally cast into the hair crown, just above the forehead, is a distinct skull. This specific Nepalese element emphasizes Shiva's role in transcendent transformation and the transience of physical existence, imbuing the sculpture with a powerful, meditative quality.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eThe Palm Symbol:\u003c\/strong\u003e An iconographic geometric symbol is cast into the raised right palm (\u003cem\u003eabhaya mudra\u003c\/em\u003e). This specific feature reinforces the gesture of absolute protection, cosmic order, and the removal of fear for the viewer.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eVictory over Ego:\u003c\/strong\u003e Shiva balances on the dwarf Apasmara, who symbolizes human ignorance, ego, and spiritual blindness. By holding the demon under his foot, Shiva demonstrates the victory of pure consciousness over the darkness of the human mind.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eThe Cosmic Cycle:\u003c\/strong\u003e The dynamic \u003cem\u003eanandatandava\u003c\/em\u003e dance within the ring of flames depicts the universal cycle of creation, preservation, and transformation. It reminds us of the constant dynamism and necessary balance in the universe and in one's own life.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor the connoisseur and collector, this object represents a rare stylistic transition in which Indian iconography has been adopted and refined by Nepalese master casters. A powerful focal point with a deep intellectual and spiritual emphasis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eMaterial-Technical and Forensic Analysis\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eCasting Structure and Core Material:\u003c\/strong\u003e The bronze is hollow-cast with the characteristic wall thickness irregularities of pre-industrial Nepalese casting processes. In the deepest cavities of the plinth are the original, petrified remnants of the light-grey mineral clay and sand core.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eAuthentic Patination:\u003c\/strong\u003e The interior of the protected cast area features a continuous, dry layer of natural light-green malachite encrustation (copper carbonate). This atmospheric crystallization of copper salts can only result from a prolonged, decades-long oxidation process and is completely free of chemical acids or synthetic resins.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eWear and Manual Finishing:\u003c\/strong\u003e The underside of the footring shows non-linear, manual file marks and a subtle friction polish on the corners, caused by long-term use on a home or temple altar. There is no indication of modern mechanical processing, such as angle grinders or automated welding.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eDating:\u003c\/strong\u003e Early-to-mid 20th century (approx. 1920–1960)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e Nepal (Newari casting tradition)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eTechnique:\u003c\/strong\u003e Handmade bronze casting (lost-wax method)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 36 cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Collector Grade (fully authentic, unrestored condition with natural mineral deposits and specific Himalayan iconography)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"1stbuddha","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57661745922379,"sku":"683","price":1348.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/6170\/5547\/files\/antiek-bronzen-shiva-nataraja-nepal-36cm-1.jpg?v=1782283527","url":"https:\/\/1stbuddha.com\/products\/antiek-bronzen-shiva-nataraja-nepal-36cm","provider":"1stbuddha","version":"1.0","type":"link"}