A gilt-bronze figure of Nandi Nepal, 14th-15th century 5 in. (12.7 cm.) long Provenance: Sotheby’s New York, 16 & 17 September 1998, lot 179.
Nandi, the sacred bull, is the gatekeeper and vahana or vehicle of the Hindu god Shiva. The entrance of most Shaivite temples features a figure of Nandi on a raised platform, typically depicted as a reclining humped white bull facing the shrine so as to forever gaze upon the god. Worshippers often decorate these statues in floral garlands and bells, as displayed by the present piece. Some may even touch the statue’s genitals for blessing, as Nandi is identified with fertility.
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