Q1. With reference to the bronze sculpture tradition of the Chola period, consider the following statements:
- The lost-wax technique, also known as Cire Perdue, was used in producing intricate Chola bronze sculptures.
- In the Nataraja representation, the cosmic dance of Shiva symbolises the interconnected processes of creation, preservation and destruction.
- The Tribhanga posture, depicted in the Sivagami idol, involves three bends of the body.
- Chola bronze sculptures were generally produced using permanent moulds that could be reused for mass production of identical idols.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 4 only
(d) 1, 3 and 4 only
Answer: (b)
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is Correct: Chola bronzes were produced using the lost-wax or Cire Perdue technique, allowing intricate detailing.
- Statement 2 is Correct: Nataraja represents Shiva's cosmic dance, symbolising the cycles of creation, preservation and destruction.
- Statement 3 is Correct: Tribhanga refers to a graceful three-bend posture involving the neck, torso and legs.
- Statement 4 is Incorrect: The traditional lost-wax process generally produces an individual sculpture through a disposable wax model and mould. The mould is broken to retrieve the finished sculpture.
