7 Different Types Of Sculptures To Visit In The India

The history of carving objects on stones, metals, wood and other materials dates back to the pre-historic era, when our early ancestors paved way for this art form by scratching on the cave walls. Later, many civilizations like Greek, Roman, Egypt, Mesopotamia, India, China and others developed their own form of sculptures to express their ideas and beliefs. These ranged from simple nature-inspired motifs, abstract forms to even hyper-realistic statues. Most of them can found in the temples and other important shrines.

Today, Sculptures are no more confined to rocks! The new-age Sculptors believe that no material is unqualified to carve outa beautiful figurine. Everyday things like soaps, glass, pencils, grains and even trash can be transformed into highly complex, artistic pieces. This article serves as an ode to some of the best Sculptures in the world, which are masterpieces in their own forms.

# The Oldest Nataraja Sculpture in India

Nataraja is the dancing form of Lord Shiva, which symbolizes the holy union of nature with the divine. This bronze statue of Shiva Nataraja belongs to the Chola period of 11th Century. It features a fire halo within which the Lord takes his dance position. The two upper hands hold a Damru and Agni, while the lower hands showcase the Abhayamudra. He tramples on the Apasmara Purusha, which is the symbol for illusion in mankind. Even after so many centuries, it’s amazing to see how the sculpture has withstood the test of time.

# Gajendra Peeth – Akshardham Temple

Gajendra Peeth, is the lower platform of the main shrine in Akshardham temple, in New Delhi. It is designed to showcase that the entire mandir stands on the shoulders of these mighty elephants. With about 148 elephants weighing about 3000 tons and carved in different sizes and forms, this awe-inspiring stone structure makes for one of the most famous elephant sculptures in India.

# The Mighty Horses Of Konark Chariot

The Konark Chariot is one of the world’s most iconic structures, which is depicted to have 7 horses pull it. These horses have different symbolic meanings associated with them. While some of them perceive them to stand for the 7 days of a week, the other see them as the seven colors of the rainbow. This horse sculpture is also one of the oldest in India, and is party destroyed due to invasions.

# The Ashoka Pillar – Sarnath

The Ashoka Pillar, popularly called as the Lion Capital of Ashoka sculpture, is located in Sarnath, India. It was built by Ashoka, the emperor of Maurya Kingdom. The structure features 4 lions sitting on their hind legs on a tall pillar, facing different directions. Each of these Asiatic lions symbolize power, courage, confidence and truth. This later became the National Emblem of India.

# Apsara- The Celestial Female

If beauty had a visual form, it would probably look like this sandstone statue of Apsara! As per the Indian mythology, Apsaras are celestial or supernatural beings who are exceptionally beautiful. They are divine dancers and have graceful, dainty bodies. This 12th-century statue is one of the world-famous female rock sculptures, which depict the high level of detailing. With sensuous body parts, sharp features and exquisite jewellery, no human being can attempt to look as amazing as this lady!

# Jatayu – the world’s Largest Bird Sculpture

In the Kollam district of Kerala stands a magnificent statue of Jatayu, the mythological bird from Ramayana, which is the largest bird sculpture in the world. It measures a whopping 200 feet length, 150 mts breadth and 70 mts in height. The statue is placed at an altitude of 1200 ft above sea level and symbolizes protection of women. The place is also called Jatayu Earth’s Center or Jatayu Rock and is a park, nature center and museum area.

# The Bean – Chicago, United States

The Cloud Gate, popularly called by the name “Bean” is considered to be one of the greatest public sculptures in the world. It is designed and developed by Sir Anish Kapoor, a renowned British born, Indian artist. The entire structure is made with 168 stainless pieces, which are seamlessly welded together to reflect the city’s skyline. It has now become the iconic structures of Chicago, where thousands of visitors throng each day to click pictures on the unique reflective surface of the statue.