Chandrasekhara Shiva Painting | Acrylic on Paper | South Indian Art

This finely rendered Chandrasekhara Shiva painting depicts a revered manifestation of Lord Shiva associated with the crescent moon adorning his matted locks. Executed in acrylic on paper and presented in a wooden frame, the composition brings together detailed iconography, expressive gesture and a strong sense of devotional presence.

Chandrasekhara is shown with four arms. His upper hands hold a parashu (battle axe) and a deer, while the lower hands are expressed in abhaya, the gesture of reassurance and protection, and vyakhyana, the gesture associated with teaching and the transmission of wisdom. Together, these attributes convey Shiva's roles as protector, teacher and master of the natural and restless mind.

His towering jata-mukuta, or matted hair arranged as a high chignon, carries the sacred river Ganga, while a crescent moon rests prominently on the front of the coiffure. Flowing locks extend down the back, adding movement to the composition and reinforcing the dynamic quality of Shiva's form.

The figure is richly adorned with detailed armlets, layered necklaces and waist ornaments, while the closely draped dhoti balances the elaborate jewellery. The combination of ascetic attributes, regal ornamentation and carefully rendered iconography creates a compelling representation of Chandrasekhara within the South Indian devotional art tradition.

Presented in a wooden frame, the artwork measures 15.5 × 11.5 inches and is executed in acrylic on paper.

Details

• Title: Chandrasekhara
• Deity: Lord Shiva
• Form: Chandrasekhara Shiva
• Medium: Acrylic on paper
• Dimensions: 15.5 × 11.5 in
• Frame: Wooden frame
• Iconography: Four-armed Shiva with parashu, deer, abhaya and vyakhyana mudras
• Attributes: Crescent moon, Ganga and jata-mukuta
• Tradition: South Indian devotional art