The Temple Guardian II
The bull, is of significance in many ancient cultures. In buddhism The Bull represents "desire" during the life of the Buddha as a prince. Amongst the Jains The bull is the emblem of Adinath, the first Jain tirthankara. In Greek mythology it is a symbol of male sexuality, illustrated by Zeus, in the form of a white bull, unrelentingly pursuing Europa.

Within Hinduism, the bull is best known as Nandi, the sacred steed of Shiva and is depicted as a powerful white bull. The white color is a symbol of purity and devotion. Nandi is regarded as the gatekeeper and protector of Shiva as well as Shiva’s consort the Hindu Goddess Parvati and It is believed that one must first gain the approval of Nandi before being allowed to worship Lord Shiva. Nandi also means joyous, and in ancient times, the bull was also worshipped as the Lord of Joy.

In this work the artist depicts Nandi as the guardian of the temple of shiva but also alludes to Nandi being the god of joy, with the golden bull of joy lying within the pristine and pure, white bull.

Acrylic and pen on canvas 18" X 48" / 2012 / Framed
Status: Acquired
via Gallerie NVYA - GMR Artwalk project at IGI Airport, New Delhi.