Nataraja translates to “the King of Dance,” and that is what he is.

If I were to choose one Vigraha as the representation of Indian Bronze artistry, it would be Nataraja. Deep in symbolism, full of grace and elegance. French sculptor Auguste Rodin calls it the “perfect expression of rhythmic movement in the world”

A quick summary of the iconography:

Standing on Apasmara (Demon of Ignorance), Nataraja assures protection to those who surrender to him. This is indicated by the Abhaya (protection) mudra of his lower right hand and the lower left hand pointing to his raised left foot. 

Nataraja is the creator, the protector and the destroyer.  Creation and destruction of the Universe are to the rhythm of the drum on his upper right-hand. The fire on his upper left-hand denotes destruction. The spread-out Jata (hairlocks) mark the dynamic pose. The stage for his dance is the Universe, and symbolised by the Prabhavali.

As is usual with South Indian bronzes, the back is worked on, though while the Vigraha is in worship, the devotee may never see the back.

A delightful folkish vigraha, about 11 cm tall. Admittedly, a late Vigraha, and not earlier than the nineteenth century.

It is rare to find a good Nataraja Vigraha with age. I never miss one.