Shiva as Lord of the Universe in Benares (Kashi Vishvanatha)

Shiva is shown here as the ascetic lord, entwined with protective cobras. A cartouche provides the epithet “Kashi Vishvanatha,” literally “Benares Lord of the Universe.” The god displays a vertical third eye and a horizontal double line (tilaka) on his forehead. From his topknot cascades the mighty Ganges River, alluding to his protection of the earth from the descent of the goddess Ganga. A round throat mark reminds devotees of Shiva’s role as the swallower of poisons in the Vishapraharana myth. He is surrounded by a lineage of Shaiva ascetics. Shiva is depicted with startling naturalism, giving the appearance of a life portrait. The oval framing device, favored by late Victorian–era studio photographers, adds to the image’s immediacy.