Jaina Archaeological Heritage of Tamilnadu

Author(s): A Ekambarnathan
Publisher: Bharat Varshiya Digambar Jain Mahasabha

Page 70

JAINA PAINTINGS 69
conventional modes of execution; both reflect beauty and symmetry of different dimensions. There was a gradual evolution in the techniques and depictions of various themes and motifs reflecting the changes taking place in the different aspects of society. However, it seems that the general trends of evolution and development in Indian art were mostly common to South Indian art also. Though, at different times certain unique aspects do emerge in the paintings of the South.
The earliest available painting in the Tamil country belongs to the Pallava period. But, the tradition of painting in this region must have existed from the very early times. Sangam literature is full of references to paintings made on different mediums and the processes and methodology involved in the execution of art. One of the five major epics Manimekalai refers to "Oviya Chennul" as a treatise on paintings which described the various modes and apparatus involved in the execution of paintings. This book is also supposed to deal with techniques of drawing, both stationary and moving objects. Sangam works like Paripadal, Nedunalvadai and the older of the twin epics Cilapathikaram also mention the presence of paintings.
The Jains of the Tamil country too had a strong tradition of painting spanning over a period from the Pallavas down to the present century. Examples of ancient Jaina paintings are found at Armamalai, Sittannavasal, Tirumalai, Tiruparuttikunram and Karandai, while paintings spanning the period from 18th century A.D. to 20th century A.D. are found at Vidur Perumandur and Melsittamur.