Dance is the supreme art of representation and provides the basis of
sculpture and painting. Shiva is associated with dance and is often referred
to as '
Nataraja', meaning king of dances.
Shiva is commonly shown performing the cosmic dance tandava, the dance
of bliss. But his dance is sometimes destructive as seen in the destruction
of Andhaka. The dancing Shiva is shown with ten arms holding attributes
commonly connected with him e.g. damaru, fire, an animal etc. He wears
necklaces, armlets and bracelets of tulsi beads. His neck and hair is also
adorned with serpents. He holds up his hand in a gesture of blessing but his
gaze strays away from the viewer.
Beneath his feet lies the demon, defeated, pleading for mercy. Next to the
demon sits his consort, with a tray of fruit and flowers, as though
anticipating Shiva's victory. Her body posture is as relaxed as Shiva's is
violent in movement - though a smile plays on the lips of both. To add to
the aggressive nature of the theme, the background is painted black.
This description by Renu Rana.
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