Parvati
is the consort of Shiva and like her male counterpart she is both an ascetic and
an ecstatic. She is the mother of Shiva’s children and an independent deity in
her own right. Like Shiva, Parvati is said to have the power of alchemical transformation.
There are many relevant tales: In one the Parvati undergoes severe austerities
in order to attract the attention of her beloved Shiva, including transforming
her gorgeous jet-black skin to luminous gold. Finally he is awaken from his deep
meditations by her light and acknowledges her as his consort.
This exquisite chola bronze statue is a sensual rendering of the goddess
in a classical Indian style. Her youthful sumptuous and life-like curves are at
moments more flesh than bronze. She wears a classical Indian headdress a magnificent
belt and delicate jewelry. Her highly detailed and regal headdress places her
as an Indian statue. This is an elegant bronze and a stately depiction of the
goddess in human form. (SD)
