Antique Brass Nataraja Statue with Coral & Turquoise Inlay | Dancing Shiva Hindu Deity Figure | Indian Brass Shiva Nataraja Altar Piece
One of a kind! This captivating antique Nataraja statue from India presents Shiva in his supreme cosmic dance with extraordinary expressive power. Cast in aged brass with remarkable detail, the four-armed figure dances in the ananda tandava pose — one leg raised, wild locks of matted hair radiating outward, the iconic ring of flame surrounding the entire composition. What elevates this piece far beyond a standard Nataraja is the lavish stone inlay work covering the prabhavali flame ring and the lotus base: alternating coral and turquoise mosaic tiles in deep red and teal create a jeweled effect of genuine visual richness. The loincloth area carries additional coral inlay, and the hollow cast base — visible in the bottom image — confirms solid traditional brass casting throughout.
The face closeup reveals exceptional detail: the third eye on the forehead, elaborate crown, and finely incised jewelry and chest ornaments all rendered with the skill of experienced Indian religious craftsmen. Shiva as Nataraja embodies creation, preservation, and destruction — one of Hinduism’s most profound and universally recognized sacred images.
This is a genuinely one-of-a-kind piece, discovered in a dusty antique shop on the outskirts of Uttar Pradesh, India where objects like this surface rarely and disappear quickly. Whoever brings this home is not buying a decoration but inheriting a sacred object with genuine history. This is the kind of find that serious collectors travel for and rarely encounter twice.
Details:
- Measurements: 7.3″ height; 5.9″ width; 2.5″ depth
- Weight: 1 lb, 7.8 oz
- Origin: India
- Note: There appears to be a missing piece of turquoise at the lower left of the outer ring (please see photos).