Shivalingam with One Face
c. 750-800
Asia: India, Bihār
On View

The Hindu god Shiva is often represented in the form of a linga, a pillar-like phallus. This lingam was carved to include the face of the god. Shiva's strongly modeled and sharply cut head is distinguished by his vertical third eye, representing his transcendental wisdom. The crescent moon in his matted hair symbolizes the power of regeneration.

Details

  • Title: Shivalingam with One Face
  • Date: c. 750-800
  • Medium: Chlorite
  • Dimensions: 19 x 14 x 15 in. (48.3 x 35.6 x 38.1 cm)
  • Credit Line: The Norton Simon Foundation
  • Accession Number: F.1975.13.6.S
  • Copyright: © The Norton Simon Foundation

Object Information

  • Dye III, Joseph M., Asian Art: Selections from the Norton Simon Museum, 1988, fig. 8 p. 27
  • Pal, Pratapaditya, Asian Art at the Norton Simon Museum, Volume 1: Art from the Indian Subcontinent, 2003, no. 131 p. 170
  • Pal, Pratapaditya, Asian Art at the Norton Simon Museum, Volume 3: Art from Sri Lanka & Southeast Asia, 2004, fig. 5 p. 105
  • Campbell, Sara, Collector Without Walls: Norton Simon and His Hunt for the Best, 2010, cat. 1195 p. 381
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