 Slender images of goddesses rich in detail and mighty gods in
awe - inspiring postures are created and each pose or gesture has a mythological
significance. Stylistically the images made in Tamil Nadu conform to periods like Pallava,
Chola, Pandyan and Nayaka. Bronze contrived from copper and tin is used to shape the
beautiful sculptures following the guidelines in Shilpasastras.
 While making the countless
and individualistic images with extreme precision, the craftsman has to learn not only the
physical measurements to achieve the right proportions but also to familiarise himself
with the verses describing each deity, its characteristics, symbolism, and above all the
aesthetics. Usually a coconut palm leaf is used as a measuring ribbon, marks being made by
folding the leaf. On the technical and aesthetic excellence of the wax model depends the
ultimate perfection of the end product. The mould is given several clay coatings on the
wax model. In solid casting the molten alloy is poured in a thin and even stream into the
mould. When the mould is broken, care is taken to see that the head of the icon comes out
first as a good omen. Connecting rods are often used for support and these have to be
detached most skillfully. In hollow casting a clay model is made over which is applied a
thick coating of prepared wax. The thickness of the wax must match that of the final
article under preparation. The mould is kept rotating on the lathe as the hot wax is
spread, over which are marked and pressed the designs for decorating. Other coatings are
given of a paste of burnt clay to keep the wax intact. An opening is provided in the
outer-shell and when a fire is lit around it the wax melts and flows out through it. Into
this empty space is poured the molten metal. Then the usual method of tempering it with
heat and cold alternately is operated.
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