Shiva is the third member of the Hindu Trinity, the other two being Brahma and Vishnu. Shiva is the God of Mercy and Compassion The statue shows Him with a crescent moon and three snakes on his head and shoulders. His hair falls down His unclad back. He has three half open silver inlaid eyes which represent the sun, the moon and fire. Two ear rings symbolize the Shiva and Shakti (male and female) and there is a necklace around His neck consisting of 108 beads which symbolize the elements used in the creastion of the world. A drum is shown in one right hand and a trident in his left. With one right hand He bestows blessings while one left hand holds a water pot. He is wearing a tiger skin around his waist illustrating the idea that He is the source of creative energy. The statue most probably dates from the 19th century. Height 15 cm. Width 10 cm. Depth 6.5 cm.