Ardhanareeshwaran - Kerala Mural Archive

Detail Photos

Thalore, THL_P012 — Ardhanarishvara (Shiva-Parvathi composite): detail view 1 of 3

Thalore, THL_P012 — Ardhanarishvara (Shiva-Parvathi composite): detail view 2 of 3

Thalore, THL_P012 — Ardhanarishvara (Shiva-Parvathi composite): detail view 3 of 3

Living Tradition · The Present Day

Deity: Parvathi Deity: Shiva Location: Thalore Mahadeva Temple Theme: Non-narrative

Fusion of Shiva and Parvathi. On the left side is the white-skinned Shiva with matted locks, tiger skin attire, rudraksha, snake as his ear ornament, and holding a trishula on one hand. His other hand raised in abhaya mudra. On the right side is the golden-skinned Parvathi in a green attire, holding a lotus flower. They are drawn with a plain saffron-red background with flowers hanging from the ceiling and a halo over their crown. There are also floral decorations towards the bottom of the panel.

Narrative

Textual Source: Non-narrative
Mythological Tale: Shiva and Parvathi fused into one, the Ardhanareeshwaran symbolises the union of masculine and feminine and presents them as equal powers.
Episode: Ardhanarishvara

Iconography

Primary Deity/Figure: Ardhanarishvara (Shiva-Parvathi composite)
Iconographic Form: Ardhanareeshwaran
Iconographic Attributes: Shiva holding his trident trishula; serpent as his ear ornament; rudraksha maala; tiger-skin lower garment; necklace of skulls; matted locks; Ganga, serpent, and crescent moon on his hair. Parvathi holding a lotus flower in her hands; long flowing hair decorated with flowers; green-coloured lower garment.
Visual & Formal Features: Facial expression detail, Floral motifs, Hand gesture (mudra), Ornamentation
Rasa: Shanta

Spatial & Architectural

Temple: Sanctum
Zone within Temple: Sanctum
Position in Pradakshina Sequence: 11
Adjacent Panels: Kiratharjuneeyam (Panel 3), Kiratharjuneeyam (Panel 4), Swayamvara Parvathi

Condition & Documentation

Condition: Excellent
Deterioration Type: None observed
Restoration Status: Unrestored
Documentation Type: DSLR full panel
Permission Basis: Temple authorities
Date of Documentation: 22/08/2024
Artist: Senthil
Identifier: THL_P011
Rights / Notes: These images may not be reproduced, redistributed, or used for commercial purposes without prior permission.