Nayaka Paintings In the inner ambulatory of the Sanctum and painted over the original Cola paintings are found, the Nayaka paintings. The Nayaka paintings are found in the west wall of bays 1, 6 and 7; the south wall of bays 2, 3, 5 and 6; and in the east wall of bays 1 and 2. Only the paintings in bay 1 and the south wall of bay 3 have survived while in the other places, they have deteriorated. Telugu scripts found on the walls of the main tower mention a number of artist’s names.

The themes of the Nayaka paintings are essentially from Siva purana and Devi purana. Judging from the themes painted, the Nayaka artists seem to have followed the earlier Cola versions. This is witnessed in the repetitive use of Satarudra images in upper row of panels holding almost identical pose and weapons as that of the Colas.

One of the panels illustrates the story of the hunter sage Kannappan who, out of sheer devotion, offers his eye to ... More

Nayaka Paintings In the inner ambulatory of the Sanctum and painted over the original Cola paintings are found, the Nayaka paintings. The Nayaka paintings are found in the west wall of bays 1, 6 and 7; the south wall of bays 2, 3, 5 and 6; and in the east wall of bays 1 and 2. Only the paintings in bay 1 and the south wall of bay 3 have survived while in the other places, they have deteriorated. Telugu scripts found on the walls of the main tower mention a number of artist’s names.

The themes of the Nayaka paintings are essentially from Siva purana and Devi purana. Judging from the themes painted, the Nayaka artists seem to have followed the earlier Cola versions. This is witnessed in the repetitive use of Satarudra images in upper row of panels holding almost identical pose and weapons as that of the Colas.

One of the panels illustrates the story of the hunter sage Kannappan who, out of sheer devotion, offers his eye to replace the bleeding eye of a Siva Linga. On the south wall scenes from the Siva purana are discernible.

There is a vast difference between the Cola and Nayaka paintings both in the technique and color scheme. While in the Cola paintings, the pigments have been integrated into the plaster, the Nayaka artists painted over the plastered surface. As a result the Nayaka paintings have started to peel off from the wall surface. In comparison with the Cola paintings, there is a rigidity of line, sharpness of limbs and facial expressions are static in the Nayaka paintings.