The Colas c36.83

c36.83

Fig. 68. Vṛṣabhāntikamūrti with consort. Bronze. Tiruveṇkāḍu, Tanjore District. Now in the Art Gallery, Tanjore. These, along with Kalyāṇasundara (fig. 82) and two other figures were discovered recently while ploughing in a field at the village. All these figures are done by one and the same master *sthapati* and belong to the early Cōḷa period. As usual in this group, Śiva with only two hands, stands, leg crossed, as if leaning against the bull which is missing. His left hand is in *kaṭyavalambita* pose. The *jaṭābhāra* here is simple but beautiful the like of which is not found in any other bronze so far. The modelling is excellent and its beauty is enhanced by the fine finish and the delicate details. Pārvatī also is equally beautiful. She is rendered life-like and as the very embodiment of feminine tenderness, grace and beauty. The workmanship of *karaṇḍamakuṭa*, necklaces, *yajñōpavīta*, *kaṭaka* and *lōla-hastas*, *vājībandha*, broad hip and the beautiful lower garment enhance the charm of the figure.