Mandala of Shiva and Shakti

Currently not on view

Mandala of Shiva and Shakti

Mid- to late 18th century

Artist/maker unknown, Nepalese

The term mandala literally means “circle,” but here it refers to a schematic vision of the cosmos or the residence of a god. At the center of the circle, the Hindu god Shiva and his red-skinned consort Shakti are seated above a corpse in a white, temple-like palace. A square of red divine women frame the four golden gates. They are surrounded by a series of concentric rings: a yellow band populated by yogis and other deities, a fantastical jungle interspersed with ponds and ascetics’ huts, a white river replete with fish and jewels, and finally a deep blue ocean with a reflected moon at upper right.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Mandala of Shiva and Shakti

Date:

Mid- to late 18th century

Artist:

Artist/maker unknown, Nepalese

Medium:

Colors on cloth

Dimensions:

51 1/2 x 55 inches (130.8 x 139.7 cm)

Classification:

Paintings

Credit Line:

Purchased with the Stella Kramrisch Fund, 2000

Accession Number:

2000-7-2

Geography:

Probably made in Bhaktapur, Nepal, Asia

Context:

Dynasty: Shah Dynasty (1768-present)

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Currently not on view