Inspite of being influenced by the Dravidian style the Pallava architecture and sculpture evolved its own set of features as well. the temples that were built have big forms, the anatomy of the sculpted figures were plain and simple, less ornamentation, elongated faces with large eyes, thick lips, double chin, broad nose and others were common features for the sculptures. As far as the Pallava temple sculptures are concerned the figures of mythological gods and goddesses, elephants and warriors are found on the temple walls. The black coloured Goddess Kali as the destroyer is also seen. Besides these the image of Lord Shiva is also a popular motif. The sculpture of Kailashanath temple at Kanchipuram is a fine example to get acquainted with the features of Pallava sculptures and architecture. Apart from this there is the Shore Temple at Mahabalipuram has also been built on the Pallava idiom. Pallava art also travelled to South East Asia. The features of this style are evident from the Temple of Angkor Vat in Cambodia. |