Terracotta typically refers to a type of fired clay ceramic, often used for making pottery, sculptures, and decorative items. “Nataraja” is a term used to describe a specific form of the Hindu god Shiva, who is depicted as the Lord of the Dance. The Nataraja sculpture typically shows Shiva dancing within a circular frame of flames, symbolizing the cosmic dance of creation, preservation, and destruction.
A “Terracotta Nataraja” would likely refer to a sculpture of the dancing Shiva made from terracotta clay. These sculptures can vary in size and intricacy and are often created by skilled artisans. They are popular in Hindu religious art and are considered sacred representations of the deity’s dynamic and cosmic nature.