Indian Wooden Nandi Bull Figure

Early 20th century, Rajasthan, India.

Gorgeous old wooden bull figure. Nandi (also Nandikeshwara or Nandideva) is the bull vahana of the Hindu god Shiva since the Kushan dynasty (c. 1st century BC). He is also the guardian deity of Kailash, the abode of Shiva. Almost all Shiva temples display stone-images of a seated Nandi, generally facing the main shrine. The Sanskrit word nandi has the meaning of happy, joy, and satisfaction, the properties of divine guardian of Shiva-Nandi. Sacred animals serve as vahanas, or mounts for Hindu deities to travel on. Vahanas symbolize or complement the energy or character of their deity. Nandi is believed to promote fertility; passing temple visitors may touch the image’s genitals for a blessing. Nandi sculptures are often decorated with fresh flowers and given other offerings. The respect shown the bull in modern India is partly because of his association with Shiva. In Hindu cities such as Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh state, certain bulls are given the freedom to roam the streets. They are considered to belong to the god, and they are branded on the flank with the trident insignia of Shiva.

Hand-carved from hard wood and it wears an aged painted patina in lively traditional Indian colors. Painted and oftentimes repainted through the years during festival time in a temple. Good condition. Age-related wear and ceremonial use over many years. Worm holes, cracks and fractures. Traces of libations and sacrifical offerings. Gorgeous encrusted patina. Size approx. 15,1cm x 19,0cm x 7,2cm. 

Provenance: Dutch private collection