Untitled

Unknown

15th century · Copper alloy · Asian Art

Metal linga covers (kosha; literally, "sheath") have played a part in the worship of the Hindu deity Shiva since antiquity. The four faces of Shiva on this cover, each pointing toward a cardinal direction, evoke different aspects of the deity. This type of cover is sometimes described as a five-faced linga (ekhamukhalinga); the fifth face is understood rather than represented and thought to be facing skyward.

Artist

Unknown

Date

15th century

Medium

Copper alloy

Culture

Nepal (Kathmandu Valley)

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Anonymous Gift, 1986