History and Culture of PATUR; A medieval Settlement of TAMIL NADU

The Pathur bronzes, belonging to the Later Chola period (c. 12th–13th century CE), represent exceptional examples of South Indian metal artistry executed using the lost-wax (cire perdue) technique. A total of nine bronze icons were unearthed from the Viswanathaswamy Temple, depicting major Shaivite deities such as Nataraja, Sivagami, Somaskanthar, Chandikeswara, Bairavar, Ganesa, Thirunavukarasar (Appar), and Thirugnanasambandar. Among these, the Nataraja image stands out for its dynamic posture, balanced composition, and refined aesthetic proportions, reflecting the artistic maturity achieved under Kulottunga Chola III. These bronzes exhibit typical Later Chola features—slender forms, graceful ornamentation, and serene expressions. Presently preserved at the Thiruvarur Icon Centre, the bronzes show traces of soil encrustation and corrosion due to prolonged burial, indicating the need for careful conservation and restoration.