Often hailed as the land of diversity, India is speckled with numerous sculptures which highlight the rich culture and the peaceful co-existence of different communities in the sub-continent. There are certain famous Indian sculptures which have international fame. For instance the Taj Mahal is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Besides the recipient of such a prestige and position in the arena of sculpture, Indian sculpture has successfully created its separate identity. The intricate works that adorn the colossal buildings is simply amazing.
The famous Indian sculptures are incorporated in the Indian temple sculptures, Indian cave sculptures and Indian stupa sculptures. The religious places in India are the best sources for finding more about the remarkable sculptures of India. The Indian temples were once the centre of cultural activity. As a result it was here that the artisans and sculptors displayed their endowments. Sculpture, calligraphy and iconography, thus, blossomed within the temples. Both South and North India have been beautified with opulent Hindu, Buddhist and Jain shrines.
The recurring motifs used in these places of worship were foliage sculptures, animal motifs, kirtimukhas, perforated windows, lathe turned pillars and others. Temples like the Sun Temple (Konark), Meenaxi Temple (Madurai) and the Sculpture Of Veeranarayana Temple, Belavadi, Hoysala Sculpture sculpture of Veeranarayana Temple, Belavadi are some of the many specimens of sculptural acumen that existed in India. Amongst the new breed of temples it is the Akshardham Temple that stands out for its perfectionism.
An outstanding feature that makes Indian sculptures famous worldwide is the use of the erotic sculptures. Amorousness in these temples is synonymous to love. The aestheticism in these sculptures prevents them from being considered obscene. In fact it is amazing that temples which are more than 1000 years old have been adorned with such sculptures.
Some of the famous Indian sculptures are as follows:
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Recently Updated Articles in Indian Sculpture
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• | Temple Sculpture of Khajuraho Temple Sculpture of Khajuraho is composed of finely grained stone; this temple pragmatically endorses the eroticism. Khajuraho Temple is located in Central India in the state of Madhya Pradesh.
| | • | Sculpture of Konark Temple The temple is designed to achieve the shape of a colossal chariot with seven horses and twelve wheels of the Sun God. The temple of the Sun at Konark is magnificent in its construction and if often referred to as the “Black Pagoda”.
| | • | Saptamatrika Sculptures of South India The Saptamatrika is a South Indian sculpture that is said to contain energies of the deities of the Hindu pantheon. Saptamatrika Sculptures of South India dates back to 3rd century B.C. In most of the ancient temples of South India, the sculptures of the Saptamatrikas are found.
| | • | Khajuraho Erotic Figures Khajuraho Erotic sculptures are an integral feature of the Khajuraho Temple. However, the erotic carvings have been done only outside the temple. These temples are one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
| | • | Lion Capital at Sarnath Lion Capital at Sarnath was set up by Emperor Ashoka of Maurayan era. It has four lions sitting back to back and is said to represent the wheel of Law.
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