The Magnificent Surya Sculpture: Artistry from Konark's Sun Temple @NewsStation

Показать описание

Witness the finest representation of the Sun-god Surya, meticulously carved at the historic Sun temple in Konark, Orissa.

This remarkable sculpture is a testament to the exquisite craftsmanship of the Sun temple in Konark, Orissa. Carved with meticulous attention to detail, it portrays the revered Sun-god Surya, surrounded by a plethora of subordinate imagery that adds depth and richness to the artwork.

At the heart of this sculpture stands the resplendent Sun-god, but it doesn't stop there. Around him, you'll discover a world of artistic expressions: 'Maladharas' showering flowers, a vina-playing Gandharva, and an equestrian messenger, albeit partially damaged. On the upper part of the prabha (a kind of aura or halo), you'll find flower-bunches carried by female attendants, accompanied by male attendants, sages, and seven horses led by the charioteer Aruna.

Texts accompanying the sculpture identify the two female figures attending Surya as his consorts, Chhaya and Suvarchasa. The two male attendants, known as Danda and Pingala, are depicted as his trusted companions. Notably, Pingala began appearing in sculptures as an independent theme as early as the 4th century AD.

Originally, this sculpture served as the sanctum image in Konark's Sun temple, where it was installed for worship within the temple's 'garbha-griha.' However, to ensure its safety and better preservation, it was later relocated to the National Museum.

The sculpture portrays Surya with two arms, adhering to the standards of human anatomy. Regrettably, the forearms once holding lotuses have been lost to time. Nevertheless, two fully blossomed lotuses still grace the shoulders of the deity. An iconic feature of Surya's representation is his chariot, drawn by seven galloping horses, with reins in the hands of his charioteer. Above the divine figure of the Sun-god, an ornate arch enhances the overall beauty of the sculpture. Surya's face radiates with inner delight and energy, featuring a subtle, enigmatic smile.

Surya, a Rig-Vedic deity often equated with Vishnu, symbolizes light, warmth, and the essence of life. The concept of Surya sculptures dates back to the early centuries of the Christian era. In these early depictions, Surya is shown in 'udichya vesa,' clad in a tunic, girdle, and high boots, brandishing a dagger. Notably, his chariot in these ancient sculptures was drawn by four horses. As the cult of sun worship extended beyond India to regions like Greece, Rome, and Iran, these early sculptures display influences from external elements, especially Iranian art. Subsequent sculptures, however, reflect a more distinctly Indian aesthetic.

Explore the rich tapestry of this magnificent Surya sculpture, a testament to India's artistic heritage and its enduring reverence for the source of light, warmth, and cosmic dynamics.

#KonarkSunTemple
#NationalMuseumSunIdol
#NewsStation