Harihara Sadashiva

Gouache on paper.

Sadashiva, the Eternal form of Shiva, whose heads face the cardinal points and the zenith, is shown in the form of Harihara, bearing the combined attributes of Shiva and Vishnu. The god’s massive chest and belly recall portraits of Raja Sidh Sen of Mandi (r.1684-1727), a ruler of large physique and reputedly an adept with yogic powers. Sidh Sen’s self-identification with Shiva is reflected in a number of portraits showing him as an ascetic or as the god himself.

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