Appar, 10th century Chola Bronze
sculpture, height – 43.0 cm, width –
18.5 cm.
Image of saint Appar, one of the most prominent saints
of Shaivism from Tamil Nadu. He lived during the 7th
century CE and played a crucial role in revitalizing
Shaivism during a period when Jainism was gaining
prominence in the region. Appar’s hymns, part of the
sacred text ‘Thevaram’, focus on devotion to lord Shiva
and emphasizes the importance of service, humility and
spiritual discipline.
The statue is identical on the basis of stuffs that it
holds and his ascetic like garments. The statue is a
bronze sculpture, creating with the lost – wax technique,
a hallmark of Chola period craftsmanship. Appar is often
depicted in a humble posture, same goes with this one,
symbolizing devotion and piety. The body posture is
naturalistic yet idealized, adhering to the aesthetic
principles of South India. He is standing with his hands
joined (Anjali Mudra : gesture of prayer). He is holding a
pickaxe, a tool used for cleaning temple grounds,
symbolizing his dedication to serve the lord. Adorned
with a beaded chain on the forehead and a beaded long necklace and a plain torque are fixed just below
the neck. He wears plain armlet and bangle. The earlobes are elongated.
He is standing on Tribhanga position with left leg flexed at the knee and right leg straight on a
double lotus pedestal mounted on a square base which signifies purity. He is dressed in a Tamil
traditional attire with intricate designs emphasizing cultural authenticity. The serene expression reflects
his deep spiritual connection, finely sculpted facial features including the gentle smile conveys a deep
sense of spiritual surrender.
Appar’s hair is styled traditionally and his forehead bears the Vibhuti (Sacred ash) marks signifying
his devotion to lord Shiva. Body proportion follows the Shilpa – Shastra (Ancient Indian’s canons of art)
ensuring harmony and balance in the sculpture.
Though Appar lived in the 7th century, the statue likely from the 10th-12th century (middle Chola
period), when the Shaivaite Saints were widely commemorated through art.
This statue serves as both, a religious icon and a historical artefact, offering insights into Tamil
devotional practices and the artistic excellence of the Chola period. It highlighted the synthesis of art
and spirituality that characterized South Indian temple culture.
