CYMBAL PLAYER

Konark situated north-east of Puri is famous for Sun temple. Sun temple built during the reign of Eastern Ganga king Narasimhadev-l (1238-1264), is conceived as an architectural reproduction of the chariot of Sun God. This highly planned temple has a magnificent Jagmohan. Now only a portion of the ruined temple is standing as the proof of supreme achievement of architectural genius. Exquisite carving and monuments at statuary make the Sun temple, often called 'Black Pagoda' due to its color, a landmark in the field of art and architecture. All the structures are large, proportional, vigorous, and full of the warmth of life. Sir John Marshal writes - "there is no Monument of Hinduism, I think, that is so stupendous and so perfectly proportioned".

The themes of sculptures executed on the walls of the Sun temple are religious, social, and erotic in nature. Under the religious head, a large number of statues of Hindu Gods and Goddesses are executed. Similarly, the subjects executed under social themes contain lives and customs of that time. Under the erotic theme sexual love has been executed that makes the people think of sex.

Cymbal player, one of the sculptures on the social theme, executed in hard stone, placed high up on the wall of Sun temple is an excellent work. She has a round smiling face. Her hair is decorated with a hairband. She wears a necklace, armlets, and anklets. The folds of her clothing are shown by closely incised wavy lines which resemble a Chauri. Her lower garment ends just above the knee. Its whole appearance is surprisingly real and reflects the warmth of life.