The History Behind The Famous Bronze God Statues
Chola Iconography
There is No doubt you coming to the conclusion that one of the most prominent and successful dynasties to have ruled medieval South India were the Cholas. While references to the Cholas have been found in inscriptions dating to as early as the 3rd century CE, the Chola empire reached its peak starting from the 9th century which is called as imperial Cholas. It was from this period and until the 13th century, that the Chola rulers extended their dominance over South India by expanding their empire with formidable military power and strategic alliances all the way towards Sri Lanka and even the Maldives. The reign of the Cholas is usually divided into four periods, the Early Cholas of the Sangam literature, the interim period between the fall of the Sangam Cholas and rise of the medieval Cholas, the dynasty of Vijayalaya and finally the later Cholas.
“Art is the demonstration that the ordinary is Extraordinary.”
Chola Iconography
Avid Patron of Arts and Architecture
Apart from being successful warriors, the Chola rulers were great patrons of art, architecture and literature. They initiated the construction of large stone temples that stand tall even today and are a testament to the super craftsmanship and architectural brilliance of the artisans of the yesteryears. These temples were not just places of worship but nerve centres of social and economic life. The Chola temples reveal a gradual evolution in architecture and were primarily built in the Pallava style of architecture. Pillared mandapams, elaborate gopurams, ornate sculptures and inscriptions were characteristic of the great Chola temples.
Cholas were the inheritors and continuers of the pallava traditions in temple construction. they built numberless stone temples throughout their kingdom, until the end of the 10th country the buildings were not very large.
Pillared mandapams
The Brihadeeswara, Gangaikonda Cholapuram and the Dharasuram Airavatesvara temple are just some of the examples that exhibit the greatness of the Chola kings. Collectively called the ‘Great Living Chola Temples’, these temples have also been accorded the UNESCO World Heritage Site tag. Apart from inscriptions and sculptures many of these temples also have fresco paintings on the walls. Most of them were made using natural pigments that blended well with wet limestone. The paintings were mainly related to Shaivism apart from portraying courtly scenes, and other mythological themes. Religious narratives and scenes of daily life were other subjects that dominated these paintings.
Brihadeeswara Temple
Chola Sculpture’s – Language of Vision
Sculpture is an act or a process of finding the desired form within a block at stone and it takes considerable foresight to work this way. Traditionally, Sculpture has been made by modelling (Stucco), carving, casting. Assembling or a combination of these processes.
Chola period is remarkable for its sculpture and bronzes many of which are master pieces. Arguably one of the most famous figures found in the Chola temples is that of Lord Nataraja which is essentially Lord Shiva in the dancing form. Further Shiva in various other forms like Chandrasekhara (Lord Shiva with a crescent moon) and Shrikantha (Lord of the Auspicious Neck) and somasskanthar are some common sculptures found in the Chola temples. Further Lord Vishnu, the Alwars (Vainava Saints), the lives of the 63 Nayanmars (Saiva saints) are other commonly found sculptures on the walls of the Chola temples.
Lord Nataraja
Sculptures of the female goddess Uma-Maheswari who is the consort of Shiva is depicted in multiple forms like Goddess Druga, Arthanareeswarar, Mahishasuramardini, Nishumbasudani, Kali and Bhadrakali in these temples. The structure is represented with soft features, curved body and plenty of jewellery which is symbolic of grace that is characteristic of female beauty. Massive guardian deities (Dwarapalakas) and shrines dedicated to the deities of direction (ashatadikpalakas) are predominantly found in the Chola temples. Some temples feature a striking figure of Veerabhadra in a fierce form with multiple weapons and armoury apart from Lord Dakshina Murthy and the elegant Goddess Ganga.
Sculpture done under the chola – dynasty (9 to 13-cent) are among the most spectacular works of art ever created in the world.
During this period sculptures reached a level of unparalleled excellence and of masterful artistry were created. those works of art exemplify the grace full forms, delicate modelling and remarkable technical sophistication, depicting deities and saints, the combine sensuous form with sacred function.
Chola period is remarkable for its sculptures and bronzes. They are devoid of intricate ornaments and designs. There is gentle grace, a restrained and quite elegance, an ethereal, out worldly beauty, by means of facial expression; the gestures, elegance and stateliness of these sculptures are impressive beyond doubts.
“Sculpture Is a Language of Vision”
Inscriptions
Apart from sculptures, the walls of the Chola temples are filled with inscriptions which provide valuable insights into history, culture, political and social life during the period of Cholas. Most of the inscriptions are written in Tamil; some are in Sanskrit while others are in the Grantha script. From donations given by the citizens to the salary of the goldsmiths, these inscriptions throw light on the administration of the Chola rulers.
Some inscriptions describe the victory of kings in battles while others elucidate the kind of attacks the kingdom endured from enemies. Details of temple management, the number of educational institutions, endowments received and even details of the gems and jewels in the treasury have been painstakingly documented in these inscriptions. Through the inscriptions one can decipher the work done by the treasurer who was responsible for the jewels of the temple. The work of the treasurer was to record the quality, weight and number of precious gems and pearls in each of the ornaments. The various kinds of diamonds, rubies and pearls have also been recorded apart from the metric system followed for weights in the Chola era. All in all, the inscriptions found in the Chola temples provide a treasure trove of information related to life during the Chola age.
Bronze Idols: Lost Wax Process
No description of Chola period idols is complete without the mention of the idols handcrafted using the lost wax process. Many of the Chola kings commissioned the making of “utsava murtis” or puja idols taken out on procession. These idols were made using the lost wax process. It is an age-old technique practised even today in the quaint town of Swamimalai in Thanjavur district. The process involves making a prototype of the figure using a special wax made from beeswax and rosin. This figure is bathed in clay and dried in the sun. The clay case is heated and the molten wax is drained out through a tiny hole resulting in a hollow mould. A five-metal alloy called “Panchaloha”, consisting of 89% copper, 5% Zinc and 5% Tin and 1% golden lead with traces of precious metals (silver and gold) is poured into mould. The alloy is then made to cool which results in its solidification within the mould. The mould is then broken releasing the metal idol which is then fine-tuned by chiselling, filing, Engraving and polishing.
FAQ's About Chola Bronze Sculptures
1. Why is Chola iconography significant in Indian art history?The Chola period is considered a golden age of South Indian art. Chola iconography not only perfected the art of bronze casting but also established timeless forms and postures for Hindu deities that continue to influence temple art across India and beyond.
2. Why is Chola iconography significant in Indian art history?
The Chola period is considered a golden age of South Indian art. Chola iconography not only perfected the art of bronze casting but also established timeless forms and postures for Hindu deities that continue to influence temple art across India and beyond.
3. What makes Chola bronze sculptures unique?
Chola bronzes are admired for their lifelike grace, idealized proportions, and rhythmic movement. They are not just decorative but are imbued with deep spiritual symbolism, making them central to temple rituals.
4. Are Chola-style sculptures still made today?
Yes, traditional artisans in Tamil Nadu, especially in Swamimalai, continue to produce Chola-style bronzes using age-old methods, preserving this heritage for both temple use and collectors.
5. Can Chola iconography be adapted for modern interior design?
Absolutely. Many designers incorporate Chola-inspired sculptures, panels, and murals into contemporary spaces, blending heritage with modern aesthetics.
6. Does Chola iconography have symbolic meanings?
Yes. Every posture, gesture, and ornament in Chola art has spiritual significance. For example, Nataraja’s dance represents the cosmic cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction.
7. Can bronze statues be placed outdoors?
While they can be placed outdoors, exposure to moisture and extreme weather may affect their finish. If displaying outdoors, apply a protective coating periodically.
8. Are your statues suitable for pooja and temple use?
Yes. Our statues are crafted in accordance with traditional iconographic guidelines, making them suitable for worship in homes and temples
