Government Museum

Government Museum Review

This complex of six museums is best known for its superb collection of Pallava and Chola (8th- to 11th-century) bronze sculptures. One highlight is the many Chola Nataraj specimens—a detailed 2-foot statue of the dancing Shiva, surrounded by cosmic fire—but most of the bronzes are worth a look for their detailed craftsmanship and facial expressions. Other artwork from all over South India, including ancient Buddhist statues and Jain sculptures, are well represented. The grounds around the buildings also hold sculptures and other works in stone and metal. This includes some of Tipu Sultan's cannons, whose ends are made to look like a tiger's head.