Antique Indian miniature painting of Adharanishvara, the combination of the God Shiva and his consort Parvati in one body. The half male, half female represents the union of opposites, the universal principles: masculine, Purusha and feminine, Prakriti. In this painting, Parvati is easily identified by her beauty and crown. Shiva is identified by the snake the encircle both their neck, his tiger cloth, and his long hair which is secured on top of his head. As traditional, the couple share Shiva's vertical third eye. In a charming twist, Shiva's side holds a lotus flower, one of Parvati's attributes. Gouache and gold on paper.

Age: 18th/19th century

Dimensions: Art: 4" high x 5" wide. Frame: 10 1/4" high x 12 1/2" wide.