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One-Faced Linga (Ekamukhalinga)
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The innermost sanctum of a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva is called a womb chamber in which a stylized phallus called a linga is installed. Together, the chamber and linga represent the potentiality of creation. Artists depict the first stage of creation by a face emerging from the phallus, which embodies one aspect of Shiva. This face is of a powerful yogi, with long matted locks adorned with a crescent moon. He has a penetrating gaze with all three of his eyes. This icon would have been accessed primarily by Brahmin priests who would perform rituals honoring Shiva as the ultimate creator of the world.
| Artist / Maker | Anonymous, Pala dynasty |
|---|---|
| Date | 600s–700s |
| Culture / Origin | Eastern India, Bihar, Medieval period, Pala dynasty |
| Medium | chloritic schist |
| Dimensions | Overall: 83.8 cm (33 in.) |
| Department | Indian and Southeast Asian Art |
| Type | Sculpture |
About the Artist
Provenance & Source
Image & data: Cleveland Museum of Art, CC0 / Public Domain.
Condition
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