Mahisasuramardini in the Temple Art of Andhra Pradesh

Contents: Foreword. Preface. 1. Introduction. 2. Origin and antiquity of the cult of Mahisasuramardini. 3. Iconography of Mahisasuramardini in literature. 4. Mahisasuramardini in the temple art of Andhra Pradesh 6 to 11 century A.D. 5. Mahisasuramardini in the temple art of Andhra Pradesh 11 to 17 century A.D. 6. Conclusion. Bibliography. Glossary of technical terms. Appendices. Index.

The worship of Mahisasuramardini has been prevalent since the very ancient days. Later on the worship of Mahisasuramardini became part of Sakti cult. A large number of sculptures and images of Mahisasuramardini, ranging from the Early Chalukya to the Vijayanagara period have been noticed in the temples and museums of Andhra Pradesh. In this book the origin and antiquity mode of representation iconographical features and dynastic characteristics of the sculptures and images of Mahisasuramardini of Andhra Pradesh have been studied in a systematic manner.

A complete knowledge of Mahisasuramardini cult in Andhra Pradesh its sculptural evidences a glimpse of Mahisasuramardini sculptures in chronological order the important sculptures subjected to critical iconographic study based on extensive field work and the representation of Mahisasuramardini through hundred illustrations all have made the book the first of its kind. (jacket)