About this artwork
The most sacred aspect of Shiva, one of the principal gods of Hinduism, the linga is the main focus of worship in temples dedicated to him. Taking the form of the phallus, it symbolizes Shiva’s yogic control of the cosmic creative force. This chaturmukhalinga (Shiva linga with four faces) aligns with the cardinal directions and represents the four aspects of the god: creation, wrath, gentleness, and ascetic self-discipline. Worship of the linga dates back to the most ancient times in the Indian subcontinent.
-
Status
- On View, Gallery 141
-
Department
- Arts of Asia
-
Title
- Emblem of God Shiva with Four Faces (Chaturmukhalinga)
-
Place
- Rajasthan (Object made in:)
-
Date
- 601 CE–800 CE
-
Medium
- Sandstone
-
Dimensions
- 71.7 × 40.6 × 44 cm (28 1/4 × 16 × 17 5/16 in.)
-
Credit Line
- James W. and Marilynn Alsdorf Collection. Gift of Marilynn Alsdorf
-
Reference Number
- 2021.236
-
IIIF Manifest
- https://api.artic.edu/api/v1/artworks/148374/manifest.json
Extended information about this artwork
Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email . Information about image downloads and licensing is available here.