This is a protective silver sheath designed to cover a stone Shivalinga, the phallic symbol (linga) of the Hindu god Shiva. Such metal sheaths are modeled after stone images that they cover. Most of the time the linga has no faces. The four-faced linga is, however, more than a symbol. It is also the anthropomorphic representation of Shiva. As a cosmic god he represents the five cardinal directions and five elements. Only four heads, representing different forms of Shiva, are visible to us, with the fifth, the center, only implied.The linga is the primary object of worship in temples dedicated to the god. Shiva personifies the renewal and destruction of existence, with the linga representing his regenerative and creative energy. The multi-faced form of the linga, common in the Kathmandu Valley, has four visible faces and an abstract, formless face on the top. The five faces represent five distinct aspects of the god and also correspond to sacred sites of Shiva in India and Nepal. A devotee would usually approach the linga with offerings and prayers, view it, and be seen through it by Shiva, thus receiving the god’s blessings.

Artwork Details

Title
Four-Faced Linga
Dimensions
7 3/4 × 7 3/4 × 7 1/2 in.
Medium
Silver Repoussé
Origin
Nepal
Classification(s)
sculpture
Date
18th - 19th century
Credit Line
Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art
Object number
C2002.39.1

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Ritual

Concepts

Prescribed practices that carry symbolic meaning and value within a specific tradition and are intended to attain a desired outcome. Rituals are usually done as part of a ceremony or regular routine.

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Devotion

Concepts

A virtuous feeling and deep respect toward an authentic teaching, teacher, or path. Buddhists believe that expansive study, analysis, and meditation are essential steps for cultivating a healthy and enduring devotion.

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Hindu Gods and Goddesses

Figure Type

Hindu gods (deva) are thought to be manifestations of the absolute, or Brahman. The goddesses (devi) are considered manifestations of the Great Mother Goddess (Mahadevi), who is seen as the counterpart to Brahman.

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Nepalese Regions

Region

The Himalayan kingdoms of the Kathmandu Valley were significant centers of Buddhist culture. Nepalese kings, Buddhist institutions, and ordinary people patronized the vibrant art guilds. The artistic traditions of the regions are well-known in Tibetan areas and beyond, and Newar artists have always been in high demand throughout Tibetan regions and Inner Asia.

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