Correct Option
The correct options are They were made using the lost-wax technique. and They depicted deities as well as devotees..
Explanation
Chola bronze sculptures (c. 9th–13th century CE) represent the pinnacle of South Indian metal art. These icons were created for temple processions (utsava murtis) and are renowned for their sensual modeling, rhythmic movement, and the technical mastery of the Cire Perdue (lost-wax) process.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement They were made using the lost-wax technique.: Correct. Chola bronzes were crafted using the lost-wax technique (Cire Perdue). Specifically, the Chola artisans used the "solid" casting method, where a solid wax model was created, coated in clay, melted out, and replaced by molten metal alloy.
- Statement They depicted deities as well as devotees.: Correct. While the most iconic image is that of Shiva as Nataraja, Chola art is distinct for elevating human devotees to divine status. Bronze icons of the Nayanar saints (e.g., Appar, Sambandar, Karaikkal Ammaiyar) and Alvar saints were extensively produced and worshipped alongside deities.
- Statement They were primarily imported from Southeast Asia.: Incorrect. These sculptures were indigenous masterpieces produced by local craftsmen (sthapathis) in the Tamil region, particularly around Thanjavur, not imported.
- Statement They were made exclusively of gold.: Incorrect. They were not made exclusively of gold. They were typically made of bronze or Panchaloha (an alloy of five metals: copper, tin, lead, iron, and traces of silver/gold).
Key Takeaway
Chola bronzes are solid metal icons cast using the lost-wax technique. They are famous for the aesthetic balance of the Nataraja form and the unique inclusion of human saints (devotees) in the temple iconography.