Virtual Lecture | Beyond the Sensuous: Chola Bronzes of South India
The Thief Who Stole My Heart: The Material Life of Sacred Bronzes from Chola India, 855–1280
Parvati, Indian, 11th century, bronze, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, Museum purchase funded by the Agnes Cullen Arnold Endowment Fund.
Indian, Wedding Necklace, 19th century, gold, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, gift of Alfred C. Glassell, Jr.
Hair Ornament, Indian, 19th century, gold, green, and red gemstones and cloth cord, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, gift of Alfred C. Glassell, Jr.
Discover some of the most sensuous and accomplished works of art fashioned anywhere in the world. The Chola dynasty of South India (c. 855–1280) was a period of unprecedented originality and creativity. As sacred images, Chola bronze sculptures interacted with the people of the era, adorned with silks and rich jeweled ornaments to participate in vibrant festival processions. This talk addresses many unanswered questions. Where did the Cholas acquire the copper required to cast the heavy temple bronzes? What was the role of women in commissioning sacred bronzes as well as the jewelry to adorn them? How do inscriptions on temple walls cast intriguing light on society of the time? Admission is free.
Live via Zoom
Thursday, April 15, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. Central Time
About the Speaker
Vidya Dehejia is the Barbara Stoler Miller Professor of Indian and South Asian Art at Columbia University in New York, and the author of The Thief Who Stole My Heart: The Material Life of Sacred Bronzes from Chola India, 855–1280.
Virtual Learning & Interpretation programs are generously underwritten by the Jerold B. Katz Foundation.