Shiva and Nandi - Antique Thai Style Rattanakosin Shiva and Nandi Statue - 27cm/11"

Shiva and Nandi - Antique Thai Style Rattanakosin Shiva and Nandi Statue - 27cm/11"

Measures - (Height) 27cm/11" (Weight) 2.7kg/6lbs

An Antique Thai-Style Lacquered and Gilded Bronze Shiva Seated on His Mount, Nandi.

This remarkable bronze sculpture depicts the Hindu deity Shiva seated gracefully upon his mount, Nandi the bull, rendered in refined Thai style and finished with lacquer and gilding. One of the most enduring relationships in Hindu iconography, the bond between Shiva and Nandi symbolizes strength, devotion, and the sacred harmony between the spiritual and material worlds.

In this depiction, Shiva is shown riding Nandi as his faithful vahana (mount), crowned with a small seated Buddha at the top of his head—a striking motif reflecting a fascinating syncretic legend from the early 19th century. According to the tale, Shiva, seeking to demonstrate his power, challenged the Buddha to a contest of hide-and-seek. To conceal himself, Shiva covered his body with a thousand layers of earth and hid deep within the ground. The Buddha, with divine insight, found him effortlessly. When it was Shiva’s turn to seek, the Buddha positioned himself above Shiva’s head, remaining beyond his reach. Exhausted, Shiva finally implored the Buddha to reveal himself. The Buddha appeared and preached to Shiva, who, humbled and inspired, later built a shrine in his honor. This story highlights the perceived spiritual authority of the Buddha and the reverence shown toward him in regions where Hindu and Buddhist traditions intertwined.

Shiva, one of the principal deities of the Hindu Trimurti alongside Brahma the Creator and Vishnu the Preserver, represents the force of destruction and transformation. His cosmic role is essential—not merely annihilation, but renewal and regeneration, ensuring balance and the continuous cycle of creation. Iconographically, Shiva is portrayed as an ascetic yogi, often meditating in the Himalayas, bearing a crescent moon, a serpent coiled around his neck, and holding his trident (trishula) and drum (damaru). These symbols embody his control over time, creation, and dissolution, as well as his mastery over both the physical and spiritual realms.

Nandi, whose name means “joy” or “bliss,” is more than Shiva’s vehicle. He is a celestial being embodying purity, strength, and unwavering devotion. In temples, Nandi is traditionally positioned facing the sanctum of Shiva, symbolizing constant, faithful service and spiritual readiness. His presence complements Shiva’s ascetic power with steady devotion and grounded strength.

Together, Shiva and Nandi represent divine balance—the union of transcendent energy with steadfast faith. Their relationship captures the essence of devotion, discipline, and harmony between inner stillness and outer action. In temple worship, art, and meditation, their partnership continues to inspire countless devotees, serving as a profound reminder of loyalty, strength, and the pursuit of liberation.

Scholarly reference: Asian Art Museum – Object Number 2006.27.36.a-.b

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