The Pallava sculptures came into being from the 4th to 9th centuries. It was during the Pallava reign that the rock cut architecture flourished. The earliest specimens of Pallava art and architecture date back to the 610-690 AD. The other temples, on the other hand, were constructed from 690-900 AD. In fact the rock cut caves also came into vogue during the Pallava Empire. For the first time the stone sculptures, a predominant feature of the South Indian temples, were fast replaced by the innovative rock architecture and sculptures.

The features of Pallava Sculptures include intricate carvings. Mammoth images were carved out of stone so that the buildings can be dedicated to the deities. The Hindu epics were a popular source from which the artisans derived their subjects. These were then retold through the stone sculptures. The sculpture of Mamallapuram is a fine instance of the Pallava sculptures. The Shore Temple stands tall even today to relate the brilliance of the local craftsmanship. Another outstanding piece of art that was carved out of stone during the Pallava reign is the sculpture of Kailasanatha Temple.