Restitution of Bronze Sculptures

Recently, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art announced the return of three illegally removed South Indian bronze sculptures to India.

About the Three Returned Sculptures

Shiva Nataraja (Chola Period, c. 990 CE)

• Origin: Originally housed in the Sri Bhava Aushadesvara Temple, Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu.
• Features:
  • It depicts Shiva in the dynamic Ananda Tandava, encircled by a flaming aureole symbolising the cosmos, with matted locks flying and one foot subduing Apasmara, the demon of ignorance.
  • Cast in bronze using the lost-wax (cire perdue) technique.
• Cultural Significance:
  • The image embodies the cyclical process of creation, preservation and dissolution.
  • Represent the philosophical core of Shaivism and Chola artistic excellence.

Somaskanda (Chola Period, 12th Century)

• Origin: From the Visvanatha Temple, Mannargudi, Tamil Nadu.
• Features:
  • Shows Shiva and Parvati seated in regal posture, with Skanda originally cast separately.
  • It is designed as a portable utsava murti for ceremonial processions.
• Cultural Significance:
  • Symbolises divine family unity, fertility and royal legitimacy, central to Tamil Shaiva temple worship.

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Saint Sundarar with Paravai (Vijayanagar Period, 16th Century)

• Origin: Shiva Temple, Veerasolapuram village, Tamil Nadu.
• Features:
  • Portrays the 8th-century Shaivite saint Sundarar with his consort Paravai.
  • Figures shown in devotional stance.
  • Adorned with intricate ornaments typical of Vijayanagar bronzes.
• Cultural Significance:
  • Reflects the Bhakti movement’s emphasis on personal devotion and ritual celebration in South Indian temples.

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Significance of Restitution

• Ethical Accountability: Restoration corrects historical injustices linked to illicit trafficking and weak past acquisition norms.
• Cultural Sovereignty: Reaffirms India’s ownership over sacred heritage removed without consent.
• International Collaboration: Encourages partnerships, long-term loans and global cultural exchanges based on trust and transparency.

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