Question

Which sculpture, from the point of view of art, has international significance?
A) Vishnu
B) Ganpati
C) Natraj
D) Brahma

Answer 1

Hint: Sculpture is a form of art in which hard or plastic materials are manipulated to create three-dimensional art objects. The designs might take the form of standalone objects, reliefs on surfaces, or surroundings that range from tableaux to enveloping contexts. Clay, wax, stone, metal, fabric, glass, wood, plaster, rubber, and random “found” things are just some of the mediums that can be employed.

Complete answer:
The Natraj (dancing Shiva) sculpture is famous all over the world. During the Chola dynasty, Tamil sculptures created this bronze image. Lord Shiva's "Anand Tandav" dancing form is seen in this artwork.

With its design and dimensions based on Hindu writings on art, the sculpture represents Shiva as the lord of dance and dramatic arts. It usually depicts Shiva in one of the Natya Shastra stances, carrying numerous symbols that differ depending on the historical period and place, trampling on a demon depicted as a dwarf (Apasmara or Muyalaka) who represents spiritual ignorance.

Around the 6th century, the classical form of the portrayal occurs in stone reliefs, such as at the Ellora Caves and the Badami Caves. It first appeared in Tamil Nadu about the 10th century, in the form of Chola bronzes, which range in height from less than four feet to more than four feet. Many historic sites in Southeast Asia, including as Angkor Wat, as well as Bali, Cambodia, and Central Asia, have Nataraja reliefs.

Therefore the correct answer is option ‘C’.

Note: The historic Nataraja artworks discovered in various parts of India, according to Alice Boner, are set in geometric patterns and along symmetric lines, particularly the satkona mandala, which in Indian tradition represents the interdependence and integration of male and feminine characteristics.