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Sculpted splendour
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Rediscover the classicism of temple art at an exhibition of sculptures at Sankara Hall
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Beauty in bronze: Sculptures on display at Sankara Hall — Pic. by S. Thanthoni
THE IMMENSE talent of Indian craftsmen is no secret and their best has always been reserved for the gods. From the architectural masterpieces at Thanjavur and Chidambaram to the little apsaras perched daintily on village temple chariots, the richness of the tradition is overwhelming. You can rediscover the classicism of temple art at an exhibition of sculptures titled "Sirpangal", being organised by Poompuhar.
There are the usual pieces — Ganesha playing musical instruments, and Parvati in her graceful Bohashakti stance. But what makes this collection exciting are the innovations in iconography.
`Buddha Vinayakar' is a depiction of Ganesha inspired by a 12th Century Buddha of Bengal. The lesser-seen tandav poses of Siva on a panel at the Chidambaram temple have been translated into small bronze figurines. Besides ancient temples, the master craftsmen have also been inspired by the Shilpashastras. The pieces re-enact episodes from the scriptures. While Vishnu, his leg raised high up in the air, tells the story of the Vamana avatar, Ganesha writes down the Mahabharata with the broken tip of his tusk. Although bronze statues predominate, the display also features exquisite sandalwood, rosewood and stone carvings. Starting from terracotta Ganeshas priced at Rs. 12 to bronze Natarajas priced at Rs. 15 lakhs, the statues come in varied materials and price ranges.
The exhibition is on at Sankara Hall, Alwarpet, till January 31, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
MEERA MOHANTY
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