24"' Vishnu in Bronze

24"' Vishnu in Bronze Bronze figurines of India in general and South India in particular are admired across the globe for their superfine workmanship and minute details. Basically the themes are of mythological nature, it is one of the ancient traditional crafts adhering scrupulously to the standards of shilpa shastras in the physical measurements, proportions, description of deity and other characteristics. At the same time care is taken to add the necessary aesthetic touch. Artisans inherited this zeal and commitment to perfection from generation to generation from their forefathers.

This craft is practiced mostly by Stapathis of South India who found great patronage from the rulers especially the Cholas. Mostly the figures are of Chola, Pandya & Hoyasala styles. Artisans derive inspiration from nature in modeling the icons, they would visualize a lotus or a fish to model eyes, assume flower for the nose, a bow for the upper lip, mango stone for the chin, conch for the neck and so on. The traditional craftsmen adopt the lost wax process in casting, for larger production other methods are also adopted. Each piece is individually designed and shaped by the craftsmen. The motifs are often taken from temple friezes. Images of gods like Ardhanareshvara, Nataraja, Ganesha krishna are among the favorite themes.

This particular artifact from Shaaranga is a masterpiece, our team has put up heart and soul while working on this great artifact, we are sure that it shall add great aesthetic value to its surroundings.
Celestial Form in Molten Metal: The Tradition of South Indian Bronze
A Global Legacy of Craftsmanship
Adored by connoisseurs across the globe, the bronze and brass figurines of India—and especially South India—represent a pinnacle of artistic expression. Their fine workmanship and minute detailing are a testament to ancient traditions, passed down through generations of master artisans known as Stapathis. At Shaaranga, the creation process scrupulously adheres to the standards of the Shilpa Shastras, ancient texts that prescribe the physical measurements, proportions, and divine characteristics for each deity. This ensures not only ritual accuracy but also sublime beauty, a dedication to perfection that is a legacy inherited from their forefathers.
Inspired by Nature and Patronized by Kings
While adhering to sacred guidelines, the Stapathis also inject their own aesthetic sensibilities, often drawing inspiration from the natural world. They model the eyes on the elegant form of a lotus or a fish, the nose after a flower, and the chin to evoke a mango stone. This attention to natural beauty elevates each figure from a mere representation to a true work of art. This craft flourished under the patronage of powerful rulers, most notably the Chola dynasty, which inspired some of the most beautiful and sought-after bronze works in history. These pieces often reflect the sculptural styles of the Chola, Pandya, and Hoyasala periods.
The Lost Wax Technique: A Timeless Process
The creation of these artifacts relies on the ancient lost wax, or cire-perdue, process. In this meticulous method, a detailed wax model is first created and then covered in layers of clay. When heated, the wax melts away, leaving a hollow clay mold. Molten bronze is then poured into the mold. Since the mold must be broken to reveal the final casting, each resulting sculpture is truly one-of-a-kind. This personalized, hands-on approach, overseen by master craftsmen who are well-versed in the scriptures, ensures that each piece is a unique and divine work of art.
A Masterpiece from Shaaranga: Heart and Soul in Bronze
This particular artifact from Shaaranga stands out as a true masterpiece, representing the culmination of generations of skill and artistry. For the team of artisans at Shaaranga, this was not just another creation; they poured their "heart and soul" into the work, evident in every intricate detail. The superlative quality and refinement of this piece are sure to add significant aesthetic value and a powerful artistic presence to any space it occupies. It is a testament to the fact that even in modern times, the spirit of the ancient Stapathi lives on, creating objects of both immense beauty and spiritual depth