The Hindu deity Shiva slaying the elephant demon

Shiva, one of the most important and complex Hindu gods, not only has many forms but also embodies contradictions. He is, among other things, the divine ascetic, the slayer of demons, the cosmic dancer, and the family man. Here he is shown in the form of an ascetic (indicated by the tigerskin he wears) in a dance pose, killing a demon.

According to tradition, seven sages- angry at Shiva because their wives have fallen in love with him-send demons in the form of wild animals against him. In this painting Shiva is depicted inside the elephant demon he has just destroyed. He holds symbolic implements (drum, antelope, dagger, and trident) that refer to his other aspects and exploits.