The blue-throated god has long symbolised mysticism, embodying the power to bless, destroy and renew. Amsterdam-based artists Hans and Jerrel Goedoen of Atelier Ajanta, draw on their legacy of Indianness to create a stunning handmade sculpture of Devon ke Dev Mahadev, crafted from polygon-shaped components in dry cast resin. Only 108 pieces of this limited edition are available.
It’s a far cry --siblings based in Netherlands, deeply rooted to Hinduism, artfully blend the intricacies of Hindu iconography with contemporary European design aesthetics. A closer look reveals their Indian connection.
Hans and Jerrel trace their roots back to Hindu indentured labourers who were relocated to Suriname during the colonial rule in India. Their family later migrated to Netherlands in the 1970s, preserving and nurturing their spiritual heritage across generations.
Fast forward to 2025-- Hans and Jerrel establish Atelier Ajanta in Amsterdam, named after the world-renowned Ajanta Caves in Aurangabad, India—a timeless crucible of Indian art.
The Truth
“Spiritually, Shiva is seen as the timeless, formless truth, beyond life and death. He is often depicted as Nataraj, the cosmic dancer, whose dance movements represent the eternal cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction—the natural rhythm of existence. We have chosen to portray Shiva in a meditative state, symbolising the inner Self (Atman), the part of us that remains calm and unchanged even as the world around us transforms,” explains Hans. “In the trio of Brahma (the creator), Vishnu (the preserver), and Mahesh or Shiva (the destroyer), Shiva represents destruction—a force that removes illusion, pride, and outdated ways that no longer serve us, making way for the new.”
With a background in fashion design, Hans joined creative forces with his cousin Jerrel, who specialises in handicrafts. Their labour of love has deepened their bond. “This journey taught us a valuable lesson: in life, there is no final goal—the journey itself is the real reward,” he says.
Hands Shape the Sacred
The precision shines through in the magnificence of the proportions. The polygon-shaped parts lend a unique dimension to the murti, with the play of light and shadow from multiple directions. “The triangular shapes symbolise the sacred unity of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. We chose to represent the trio through pyramidal forms, instead of the trishul (trident). Dry cast resin allows us to create sharp corners and precise edges for definition and depth,” says Jerrel, adding the zero-maintenance complexion of dry-cast resin.
The 35-cm tall, 12-kg solid sculpture makes use of a 3D-printed mould. The duo’s hand-drawn sketch transforms into a digital design, which is then used to create the mould through 3D printing. Resin is poured into the mould, and “after curing, we carefully sand the piece by hand to smooth out any rough edges and imperfections,” shares Jerrel. The statue is then finished with a primer and spray-painted by hand in vintage gold – creating a powerful, focussed impact while exuding tranquillity. There is sheer balance in the design grammar, centred on innate balance within the form. The angular geometrics lend strength and dynamism, fluidly leading the eye into a state of stillness.
“Honestly, we created several designs,” confesses Hans. “But none truly ignited our excitement—until this one came to life. The moment we laid eyes on the statue, we were overwhelmed with pure joy.”
Symbolism of 108
The meditative sculpture of Lord Shiva underlines a deep dive into the tenets of Sanatan Dharma, where the number 108 holds profound spiritual significance-- representing the universe and all its elements. “Hindu cosmology speaks of 108 Upanishads (ancient philosophical texts), 108 marma points (vital energy centres in the body), and 108 nadis (energy channels),” explains Jerrel.
On the anvil is a miniature version – “a 20 cm tall piece, designed to fit in the hand,” they share. “For us, art evokes deep emotion. It is pure spirituality that manifests in our sculpture.”
The Devon ke Dev Mahadev sculpture is priced at 2500 Euros approximately.
Visit: https://atelier-ajanta.com
