Between the eighth and the thirteenth centuries, the Chola dynasty was the dominant cultural, religious and political force in southern India. The most spectacular elements of the dynasty's artistic legacy are its bronze representations of Shiva and other Hindu gods.<BR>This illustrated book presents nearly thirty of these works. Expert authors explore how and why the figures came to be made and examine the role they played within Hinduism and Chola culture. Full-page illustrations and numerous details reveal the bronzes' sensual beauty, which will be a revelation to a Western audience.