In the sculpture gallery, a 5th century AD’s Shiva’s Sculpture carved out of red sandstone caught my attention.
In almost all museums place of finding and belongs to which era helps to provide valuable insights. In the State Museum, Bhopal this Sculpture is tagged as Shiva 5th Century AD Bhatura (Satna).
This Sculpture was discovered from Bhatura village, which is located in Maihar subdivision, district Satna, MP and is also situated close to the world famous Bharhut Buddhist Site. It was ruled by Guptas through feuadators, in the 5th century AD.
Due to changes in dynasties changes in classical arts were significant. Vaishnavaism and Shivaism were flourishing back after decline. This Sculpture’s red or brown sand stone is almost similar to the stone used in Bharhut’s relief works on gateways and railings. Undoubtedly this Sculpture belongs to Gupta era art.
In this image Shiva the Principal Hindu deity is Sitting on a throne of rock over the Tiger’s skin mate. The right leg is resting down on the pedestal while other leg is folded towards the chest. One right hand is resting on the throne and other is holding the Trishul & damru. Left hands are holding the Snake whose hood is close to the folded leg. In this image Shiva is sitting quietly with closed eyes, third eye in the middle of the forehead is also closed and matted hair which represents his mastery over senses, wearing the traditional jewellery.
No doubt this 5th century AD’s monolithic Sculpture of Shiva is carved with all details and symbols by the sculptor of that era exquisitely and physical beauty is mainly focused.