Elements of Hindu Iconography v2.c16.s10.73

v2.c16.s10.73

The second sculpture whose photograph is reproduced on Pl. CII, comes from Ratanpur in the Bilaspur district of the Central Provinces. In this panel Śiva stands with his front right hand stretched out to receive that of Pārvatī, who in this instance alone, stands to the left of Śiva. His front left hand rests upon the right shoulder of Pārvatī. In the back hands he carries perhaps the *sūla* and the *ḍamaru*. Brahmā is seen seated before the fire, on the right of Śiva and is busy in making fire-offerings; the fire is burning in a cup placed in front of him. Near the *kuṇḍa* or cup of fire stands the bull of Śiva. Surrounding the central figures of Śiva and Pārvatī are a large number of gods and goddesses, several in the añjali attitude and some with their arms resting upon their hips (katyavalambita).