Tamil Nadu
Wood
A finely carved chariot panel depicts a rider holding a katar (dagger) on a rearing horse, with its raised forelegs supported by swirling foliage. The horse is adorned with elaborate caparisoning, while the rider wears patterned robes and a turban-like crown.
Chariots of Tamil Nadu, locally called ter, are intricate wooden structures of monumental size. The lower portion of the chariots are completely covered with timber panels carved with a wide range of figural and animal sculptures. These friezes, which constitute the finest wooden sculptures in the region, can be viewed only during the chariot festival; for the remainder of the year the chariots are parked in shelters to protect them from the sun and rain. The four sides of the chariot, which are conceived as facing the four cardinal directions, are profusely covered with carved panels that conceal the internal frame.The panels depict gods and goddesses, both as single images and as members of a related ’family’ group, as well as a host of attendant deities, guardians, women, musicians, dancers, fabulous beasts and lotuses.
Size (cms): 37.5(H) x 30(W) x 12(D)
Size (inches): 15(H) x 12(W) x 4.5(D)
