Ardhanarishvara is a composite androgynous form of the Hindu God Shiva and His consort Parvati (also known as Devi, Shakti and Uma in this icon). Ardhanarishvara is depicted as half male and half female, split down the middle. The right half is usually the male Shiva, illustrating His traditional attributes. Ardhanarishvara represents the synthesis of masculine and feminine energies of the universe (Purusha and Prakriti) and illustrates how Shakti, the female principle of God, is inseparable from (or the same as, according to some interpretations) Shiva, the male principle of God. The union of these principles is exalted as the root and womb of all creation. Another view is that Ardhanarishvara is a symbol of Shiva's all-pervasive nature. Collectible painting created by highly specialised miniature artists from Rajasthan in India. Each piece painstakingly created with minute strokes of paint over a vintage finish paper. Each base paper may vary slightly in shade; some have vintage stamps placed anywhere on the paper. Unframed Painting that can be put on any wall as is, with or without framing. At the simplest, it can be glued or mounted on a plain chart paper before putting it up. Makes for a memorable and classy gift. As each painting is handmade by an artist, minor variations in colors and patterns to be expected.