1806 Engraving: Sacred Lingam, Symbol of Shiva in Hindu Worship
€ 130
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Date
1806
Sheet size
28.5 × 21.5 cm (11.2 × 8.5 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-13429-53
Condition
Condition Report: The print shows light foxing and slight yellowing on the edges. A minor crease on the upper left corner is visible but does not affect the central image. Overall, it remains in good condition for its age.
About this sheet
This detailed antique print, titled "Lingam," illustrates a sacred Shiva Lingam, a revered aniconic representation of the Hindu deity Shiva, symbolizing divine energy and creation in Hindu worship. Published in 1806, this artwork is a significant piece from Pierre Sonnerat's influential travelogue, "Voyage aux Indes orientales et à la Chine," which documents his explorations and cultural observations in India.
Sonnerat, a French naturalist, explorer, and ethnographer, collaborated with the skilled artist Poinson to create this illustration, reflecting the European fascination with Indian spirituality, cosmology, and religious practices during the early 19th century. The print depicts the Lingam placed on a yoni base, a pedestal symbolizing the feminine principle, together representing the union of Shiva and Shakti, a core concept in Hindu theology.
The artwork was crafted using copperplate engraving, a meticulous technique renowned for its ability to capture fine details, such as the smooth contours of the Lingam and the ornate patterns on the yoni base. The Lingam is shown with a spout-like extension, a feature typical in ritualistic settings to channel libations during worship. What makes this print particularly compelling is its portrayal of a sacred Hindu symbol through a European artistic lens, highlighting the cross-cultural exchange during a period of colonial exploration. The simplicity and elegance of the Lingam, combined with the detailed engraving of the pedestal, offer a profound glimpse into the symbolic richness of Hindu worship practices, making this piece a valuable artifact of historical, cultural, and artistic significance from the early 19th century.
Condition Report: The print shows light foxing and slight yellowing on the edges. A minor crease on the upper left corner is visible but does not affect the central image. Overall, it remains in good condition for its age.
Framing Tips: Use an acid-free mat to protect against aging. Choose a simple wooden frame with a silver accent to highlight its elegance. Opt for UV-protective glass to prevent fading, and display in a low-humidity space away from direct sunlight.
