universal ring

Inspired by the awesome power of the Hindu god Shiva, Indian artisan Bhavya Jain designs this wrap ring. Crafted from sterling silver, the ring features the image of Shiva's trishul, or trident, which symbolizes his power over the earth, sea, and sky, as well as his ability to banish evil. The trident is displayed alongside Shiva's damaru, or drum, signifying the universe.

The artist explains that this peace painting is inspired by the notion of Krishna as the god of compassion, tenderness and love, who teaches about life, love, happiness, dharma, liberation, devotion, yoga, meditation and truth.

The kadamba tree is inextricably linked to the Hindu god Krishna's iconography, exquisitely depicted in this folk painting by Indian artist Bharti Dayal.

This stunning work of art is created in classic Madhubani style by applying acrylic paint and vegetable dyes on handmade paper. "Madhubani paintings are in fact a simplistic manifestation of the philosophical heights achieved by Indian civilization for the universal power of love, longing and peace -- the quest of all beings," the artist adds.

Regarded as the celestial overlord of deliverance through destruction, Shiva dances to the sound of his damru drum while his wife, Parvati, watches. She holds their son, Ganesha, in her lap. Shiva is one of the most complex gods of the Hindu pantheon, embodying seemingly contradictory qualities. He is both destroyer and restorer, the great ascetic and the symbol of sensuality, the benevolent herdsman of souls and the wrathful avenger. As he dances the tandav, he represents the process of creation, maintenance and dissolution of the material universe. Indian artist Devendra Kumar Jha depicts the scene in a meticulously hand-drawn Madhubani painting. Originating in northern Bihar, Madhubani painting was once used to decorate the floors and walls of homes. Life in harmony with nature is a popular theme for this art style.

As each painting is an individual creation, each is unique.

Shivoham, meaning "I am Shiva," is a serene sound that composes one of the most important mantras in Hindu culture. Made to connect you with the universe in one single energy of ultimate happiness, the mantra inspires today a captivating composition by Sunil Jaiswal of India. The artisan uses acrylic on canvas to create this expressionist composition, whose elements—with a rich cultural background—capture the sound's serene but divine aura.

The piece arrives signed and unstretched.