The Colas c36.55

c36.55

Fig. 46. (Pl. xx) Śiva as Ardhanārīśvara, and Śiva as an Anugrahamūrti, on the *vimāna* of Vālīśvara temple. Tiruvālīśvaram, Tirunelveli District. This temple dates probably from the early years of the 10th century a.d. Architectural details, although developed, have affinities with those of the Pallava temples at Panamalai and Kāñcīpuram. Ardhanārīśvara stands in the *tribhaṅga* pose beside a marvellously carved bull and in front of the *karṇakōṣṭha*. The representation is vigorous and its features are somewhat rugged. (Cf. beautiful Ardhanārīśvara sculptures figs. 41, 42 above). The other figure of Śiva is shown in the attitude of pacifying some one of the attendant figures. Beautiful creeper designs are found on *kūḍus*. The *yāḷis* are in high relief as at Nārttāmalai, which is an early feature.