Shiva Nataraja
Nataraja, King of Dancers, is one of the best-known manifestations of Shiva. This form probably originated in the 9th or 10th century, in southeast India (the present state of Tamil Nadu), and became very popular under the rule of the Cholas (9th-13th century). In addition to the large Natarajas in temples, small statues were also made, probably intended for house altars.