Relief with Sadashiva in the Elephanta Caves

Samuel Bourne, 1869 - 1870

This relief is located at the entrance to the Elephanta Caves near Mumbai. The caves form a collection of temples dedicated primarily to the Hindu god Shiva. The relief shows Shiva in three incarnations. On the left, the Aghora who wards off negative energy with anger. On the right, Vamadeva, elegance. In the middle, Tatpurusha, in contemplation. Together they represent balance, the core of the ancient Indian yoga doctrine.

  • Artwork typephotograph
  • Object numberRP-F-F80411
  • Dimensionsheight 225 mm x width 280 mm, height 349 mm x width 401 mm
  • Physical characteristicsalbuminedruk