Shiva Nataraja (Lord of the Dance) c. 1100

This bronze sculpture, dating back to around 1100, depicts Shiva Nataraja, the Hindu god of destruction and creation, in a dynamic dance pose. Known as the "Lord of the Dance," Shiva's pose embodies the cyclical nature of life and death. The intricate details of the sculpture, such as the elaborate head-dress and the deity's four arms, are characteristic of Chola period bronze casting. This powerful depiction of Shiva Nataraja is a testament to the skill and artistry of anonymous Indian sculptors.