Above: According to the Naths, an order of yogis associated with the practice of hatha yoga, creation begins with the limitless and eternal Absolute, a transcendent essence that permeates the universe. This painting, read from left to right, represents the origins of existence as a shimmering field of gold. Its emanations into consciousness (center) and form (right) are represented as a perfected Nath yogi, covered in ash and saffron. Through yogic practice, Naths sought to transform their physical bodies into “subtle” matter and merge with the luminous Absolute. Three aspects of the absolute, page 1 from a manuscript of the Nath Charit, 1823. By Bulaki (Indian, active early 1800s.) India; Rajasthan state, former kingdom of Marwar, Jodhpur. Opaque watercolor, gold, and tin alloy on paper. Courtesy of Mehrangarh Museum Trust, RJS 2399.
Left: Sadashiva, the Hindu deity Shiva in his role as the “eternal and supreme,” represents a higher level of the universe in which there are no distinctions among person, body, and world. Sadashiva’s five faces (here, the fifth is hidden behind the others, and the fourth sits atop the rest) signify five streams of knowledge. His other attributes are a third eye, an ascetic’s garb, and, clockwise from top right, a mace, conch shell, discus or noose, lotus, shield, snake, sword, skull cup, drum, and trident. By meditating on Sadashiva, devotees aim to achieve an essential oneness with the deity.
Opaque watercolor on paper. Courtesy of the Victoria and Albert Museum, London, Given by Col. T. G. Gayer-Anderson and Maj. R. G. Gayer-Anderson, Pasha, IS 239-1952.
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The five-faced Shiva (detail), approx. 1730–1740. India; Himachal Pradesh state, former kingdom of Mandi.