Iconography Course – Grammar of the Gods

This Iconography course involves iconography in sculptures in temples. Iconography, by definition, is the visual images, symbols, or modes of representation collectively associated with deities of particular religions. It sometimes differs from era to era and area to area. This changing cultural pattern is a fascinating study.

From the time they were built, temples in Tamilnadu were not merely places of worship. Apart from other purposes, they remain virtually museums of art and architecture. The temples gave expressions to the artists’ love and manobhavam to etch their deities in stones of varied hues. The worship of the deities was in effect worship of the art and artistry of the artisans. The highest honour given to the sculptor is evident in every temple architecture and the positioning of the sculptures. Supreme reverence comes in the form of a feeling of bhakti, the love for God, the sculptures evoke.

But who are these deities we are so in love with? To identify, the sculptors had a set of symbols and mode of representation to go by. This iconography of the deities is in tune with the aspects of the deity represented in the sculpture. Different religions or sects have different symbolism to differentiate one from the other and this gives rise to a variety of fascinating representations. Though it does not come in the way of worship, knowing such a grammar of the gods adds to one’s enjoyment of the work in front. There is power in knowledge and that is what this course intends to give you. And knowledge adds to enjoyment and perspectives.