Chola Niches

This afternoon two giant crates arrived from Pakistan. Inside are six Chola-style artifact niches (our name), destined for the new Media Studio. Designed by the monks, they were crafted by a team that works with a Singapore shishya, who also teamed up with another member to cover all the costs.

There are three sets of two in the shipment. In pairs they will adorn the walls of the Media Studio, used to display sacred artifacts. So, for instance, a marble Nandi might be on display for a month, then changed out with a bronze trisula or a wooden Ganesha. the studio will have four of these displays, making it, in part, a Saivite spiritual museum.

Also in the crate is a 14-foot-long case which will span the Eastern wall of the Cedar Room. In it are 1008 rosewood cubes. Each will hold a small black river lingam.

An early sketch, executed by our own Sri Selvanathan Sthapati (the Iraivan master builder). Here a Nandi is shown as the artifact. Blue arrows are the indirect lighting.

Two will go on either side of the digital display on the South wall.

Another style that will go near the Cedar Room entry, on either side of the glass doors.

The larger crate arrives

And the unpacking begins

The rosewood is highlighted with brass detailing.

Designs are a little different, but all are traditional, Chola-era style.

Close up of the finish.

The craftsmen are amazingly adept.

The lingam cabinet has Namasivaya inlaid in brass, in Tamil

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