Linga Cover with Four Faces of Shiva (Caturmukhalinga)
Metal linga covers (kosha; literally, "sheath") have played a part in the worship of the Hindu deity Shiva since antiquity. The four faces of Shiva on this cover, each pointing toward a cardinal direction, evoke different aspects of the deity. This type of cover is sometimes described as a five-faced linga (ekhamukhalinga); the fifth face is understood rather than represented and thought to be facing skyward.
Artwork Details
- Title: Linga Cover with Four Faces of Shiva (Caturmukhalinga)
- Date: 15th century
- Culture: Nepal (Kathmandu Valley)
- Medium: Copper alloy
- Dimensions: H. 5 3/8 in. (13.7 cm); W. 6 13/16 in. (17.3 cm)
- Classification: Metalwork
- Credit Line: Anonymous Gift, 1986
- Object Number: 1986.509.2
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
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Nepal, Kathmandu Valley
16th century
Nepal (Kathmandu Valley)
16th century
Thailand
15th century
Thailand
late 15th–16th century
Thailand
15th century
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