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Shiva Linga

Date7th - 11th century
MediumSandstone
DimensionsHeight: 17 1/4 in. (43.8 cm)
Credit LinePurchase, Gift of Gaylord Donnelley
Object number1982.20
Object TypeSculpture
On View
Not on view
Abstracted representations of the Hindu deity Shiva tall cylindrical forms such as this, which are called linga, may be man-made or naturally occurring. In Hindu religion, Lord Shiva is the formless Omnipotent Lord. The meaning of the Shiva Linga is the union of duality—of "us" and "them"—into universal non-duality—the Supreme Oneness. Most linga are carved from stone, and excavations at Kalibangan have uncovered terracottaa Shiva Linga figurines from as early as 3500 BCE.